With its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, Assam boasts a delectable culinary landscape that will tantalise your taste buds. If you are a food enthusiast looking to explore the local delicacies, Assam has something to offer everyone.
Popular Cuisine in Assam
Assamese cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition and reflects the agrarian lifestyle of the region. Let's take a closer look at some popular cuisines in Assam:
- Assamese Cuisine: Traditional Assamese cuisine emphasises on simplicity and uses minimal oil and spices. Rice is a staple food in Assam, often accompanied by dishes like dal (lentils), pitika, tenga, and khar.
- Mishing Cuisine: The Mishing community has a distinct culinary heritage centred around fish preparations. Their signature dish is Poro Aapong, fermented rice beer served with smoked fish and green leafy vegetables.
- Bodo Cuisine: The Bodos, an indigenous community in Assam, have a diverse culinary tradition. One of their specialities is Zou, made from fermented soybeans and served with rice or bread.
- Karbi Cuisine: Karbi cuisine reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Karbi tribe. Their dishes include Aron Khicdi (a one-pot rice dish with pork and dried fish), Karbido (smoky pork curry), and Soi-Kai Chutney (spicy chicken chutney).
- Mishing-Miri Cuisine: The Mishing-Miri community has a vibrant food culture, featuring dishes like Pura Tenga (sour fish curry), Aamin (steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves), and Ngat Apong (rice beer).
Popular Dishes in Assam
When it comes to popular dishes, Assam has something to offer for every palate, whether you prefer vegetarian or non-vegetarian delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes in Assam:
- Assamese Thali: Experience the true essence of Assamese cuisine with an elaborate thali. It typically includes a variety of curries like masor tenga (fish curry), khar, pitika, dal, pickles, and sweet treats like payas.
- Masor Tenga: Masor tenga is a tangy fish curry made with tomatoes, elephant apples, and other souring agents.
- Khar: Khar is a traditional dish made from the ashes of banana peels mixed with water. It is often served as a side dish and pairs well with rice and other main courses.
- Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura: Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura is a mouthwatering chicken curry cooked with bamboo shoots and lentils.
- Pitha: Pitha refers to a variety of rice cakes that come in both sweet and savoury versions. These delicious treats are typically enjoyed during festivals or as evening snacks.