Bihu is one of the most important festivals in Assam, marking the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. It’s a time for celebration, feasting, and family gatherings. One of the best parts of Bihu is the delicious sweets that are prepared to mark the occasion. If you’re looking to try your hand at making traditional Assamese sweets for Bihu, here’s a list of easy and mouth-watering options that will add a sweet touch to your celebrations.
1. Pithas: The Heart of Bihu Sweets
Pithas are the quintessential sweet of Bihu, loved by everyone for their soft texture and subtle sweetness. There are several varieties, but the most popular ones are:
Til Pitha
A simple yet delightful treat, Til Pitha is made from sticky rice flour and stuffed with sesame seeds and jaggery. These little pockets of goodness are steamed, making them light and fluffy. The sweetness of jaggery combined with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds creates a perfect balance.
Sunga Pitha
This is a delicious rice cake made by stuffing rice dough with jaggery and coconut, then cooking it in a bamboo tube. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and slightly smoky flavor, which is a hallmark of traditional Assamese cooking.
Ghila Pitha
Ghila Pitha is a fried sweet dish made from rice flour, sugar, and jaggery. These crispy, golden pieces are flavored with cardamom and often served with tea or during festive gatherings. The crunchy texture of Ghila Pitha makes it a perfect indulgence for any Bihu celebration.
Khar Pitha
While Khar is traditionally a savory dish, during Bihu, a sweet version called Khar Pitha is made. This is similar to a savory Khar but made sweeter with the addition of sugar or jaggery. It’s a great accompaniment to any Bihu meal, offering a unique twist to the traditional dish.
2. Laru: Sweet Balls for Festivities
Larus are bite-sized sweet balls made from a variety of ingredients and often served as a festive snack during Bihu.
Rice Laru
This is another variety made from cooked rice, jaggery, and ghee. Rolled into small balls and lightly flavored with cardamom, Rice Larus are soft, sticky, and perfect for the Bihu festivities.
Narikolor Laru (Coconut Balls)
Another popular sweet is Narikolor Laru, made from grated coconut, sugar, and ghee. This simple sweet is cooked on low heat until it forms a sticky dough, which is then rolled into small balls. The natural sweetness of coconut paired with sugar makes for a satisfying treat.
3. Kuhani (Rice Pudding)
Kuhani is a traditional Assamese dessert made with rice, jaggery, and coconut milk. The soft rice grains soaked in the sweetness of jaggery and enhanced by the rich coconut flavor make it a perfect dish to kick off the Bihu festivities. It’s a comforting, mildly sweet dessert that can be served warm or chilled.
Bihu is all about celebrating togetherness, tradition, and delicious food. The sweets mentioned above are perfect for bringing joy to your family and friends during this special festival. From the iconic Pithas to the rich larus, these treats will fill your home with warmth and sweetness, making your Bihu festivities even more memorable. Try making these easy yet delicious Bihu sweets and share them with your loved ones!
