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If you think Assam is solely defined by its one-horned rhinos in Kaziranga, the Ambubachi Mela in Kamakhya, or the stunning man-made lakes of Sibsagar, it’s time to explore the culinary delights of the region. A visit to an Assamese restaurant or a meal at the home of an Assamese friend could open your eyes to the rich flavors of ethnic Assamese cuisine.
Traditional Assamese dishes, such as pithas, Ou tenga jhul, and khorikat dia mangso, often appear on food enthusiasts’ bucket lists. Assamese cuisine holds a unique place in the culinary world and shows no signs of fading in popularity. The region’s diverse geography is reflected in the array of dishes found on any Assamese dining table. From distinct sweet treats and classic tel pithas to fish and chicken curries, as well as magical creations made from bamboo shoots, these dishes are sure to impress any food lover.
So, why not dive deeper into some of the most delectable Assamese dishes you can savor? The following selections are must-tries for both newcomers and seasoned connoisseurs.
1. Masor Tenga:
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This refreshing and tangy fish dish is made with elephant apple and colocasia tubers, providing a perfect respite during hot summer afternoons. The fish used is fresh-caught Goroi, offering a delightful explosion of flavors.
- Boiled (ukhuwa) rice
- Fish curry with elephant apple and colocasia tubers
- Roasted Goroi fish mash
- Dry curry with jackfruit seeds and pumpkin shoots
- A piece of bhut jolokia (ghost pepper)
2. Assamese-Style Duck Curry
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This delicious duck curry, prepared with Joha Kumura (a unique aromatic white gourd native to Assam), is a delightful dish that’s perfect for winter.
3. Kol Pitha
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Kol Pitha is an Assamese pancake made from banana pulp and rice flour, traditionally served with a bowl of hot buffalo milk and jaggery. This delightful and straightforward breakfast option is both delicious and nutritious. The pancake is typically made using Bheem Kol, a heavily seeded indigenous banana variety found only in Assam and parts of Northeast India.
4. Khar
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Khar is a distinctive and traditional dish from Assam, made with raw papaya, pulses, and a special alkaline ingredient sourced from sun-dried banana peels. Often regarded as a palate cleanser, it is typically served at the start of a meal. While the preparation of Khar is straightforward, its flavors are intricate, striking a harmonious balance between bitterness and sweetness.
5. Til Gahori
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This dish is a beloved pork preparation in Assam. Made with ginger, garlic, chili, salt, coarsely ground black sesame seeds, and high-quality pork, it creates a flavorful experience. The addition of a sour fruit enhances the dish’s light tanginess, making it truly magical.
6. Poita Bhaat
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Poita bhaat is a popular dish in Assam and other eastern Indian states, made by soaking and fermenting cooked rice overnight in water. This method is especially common in rural households, where it helps preserve leftover rice for breakfast the next day, often enjoyed with salt, chili, and oil. Poita bhaat is not only favored for its taste but also offers numerous health benefits, making it a go-to dish during hot summer days in Assam.
7. Aloo Pitika
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Aloo Pitika is a classic Assamese comfort food consisting of mashed potatoes blended with mustard oil, green chilies, onions, and occasionally boiled eggs. This dish is a staple in Assamese households and is commonly served as a side with rice. The mustard oil imparts a unique flavor, making Aloo Pitika a favorite for those who appreciate simple yet delicious cuisine. It’s also highly adaptable, with variations that can include roasted tomatoes or eggplant.
8. Festival Sweet Dishes
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During festivals, particularly Bihu, the people of Assam create delightful sweet dishes primarily using ingredients like coconut, sesame, sticky rice, and jaggery. Some popular treats include Til Pitha, a pancake made from sesame and Bora rice (a special sticky rice native to Assam); Narikolor Laru, laddus made from ground coconut and semolina; Tilor Laru, laddus made from sesame and jaggery; and Bhapot Diya Jon Pitha, steamed rice flour dumplings filled with a mixture of coconut and jaggery.
9. Rice with Pigeon Curry
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Pigeon curry is a highly popular dish in Assam, often prepared during festivals or when hosting guests. It is cooked with potatoes and served alongside Joha rice, a unique aromatic rice native to Assam, and lentils.
10. Pork with Bamboo Shoot
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Smoked pork is simmered with fermented bamboo shoots, tomatoes, and ghost chili. The bamboo shoots add a distinctive flavor to this dish.
Summing Up
A typical Assamese thali features a generous serving of rice or bhaat alongside chicken curry or mangso jhul, often accompanied by lemon and pickles. Dishes like duck meat curry, khaar, masor tenga, and egg curry garnished with finely chopped coriander consistently captivate food bloggers and enthusiasts alike, leaving them craving more.
