Known as the gateway of northeast India, Assam, is one of the states known for its rich and diverse wildlife, amazing traditions, vibrant dance forms, and its hospitality. It is one such state which is a favorite among travelers all over the world. Assam is so much more than a mere tourist destination. Not only does this state offers some beautiful scenery but it is also known for its food which is simple and delicious. Assamese food is moderately spicy and a lot of freshly squeezed lime goes into their food which makes the dishes slightly sour. Assam has a lot of tribal people living in it but no matter which corner of Assam you are in the food will always be the same. Here is a list of 10 famous foods of Assam you should not miss while you are here.
Khaar
A one of a kind cuisine that is made from raw papaya, pulses, taro, and with any meat. Traditionally Khaar is filtered using dried banana leaves which gives the Khaar a fresh and unique taste. Usually, this delicacy is served with rice for lunch and dinner and is an important part of Assamese Thali.
Aaloo Pitika
Aaloo Pitika which is one of the simplest and comfort food of Assam and plays a very important role in completing an authentic Assamese Thali. It is basically mashed potatoes prepared with a hint of mustard oil, onions, coriander, and salt and is one of the most popular comfort foods of Assam. This is usually served as a side dish with meals. It is one of the most famous foods of Assam which is best accompanied by rice and plain Dal.
Duck Meat Curry
One of the most loved delicacies of Assam and a must-have for those who have never tried this dish. Duck meat curry is mainly prepared with Ash Guard, while some people also prefer adding lentils, pumpkins, or sesame as per their taste. This delicacy is loaded with unique flavors, and usually, it’s slowly cooked to perfection. During special celebrations and occasions, you will see a lot of Assamese people feasting on this traditional food.
Maasor Tenga
Maasor Tenga or sour fish gravy is one of the most famous foods of Assam. Assamese people like their fish to be slow-cooked in a broth made of tomato, lemon, and (outenga) eggplant ear. Maasor Tenga is commonly prepared in every house almost every single day hence you must definitely try it once too. This dish has a tangy taste to it which will tickle your taste buds and is extremely refreshing on the palette. It is one of the refreshing foods to eat during the simmering summers in Assam.
Ou Tenga chutney (Ou khatta chutney)
One of our personal favorites is Ou tenga chutney which is a delicious sweet and sour chutney made out of elephant apple (ou) and jaggery. This chutney acts as a great complement to any meal and a traditional Assamese Thali is literally incomplete without this chutney on the side.
Paro Manxho (pigeon meat)
As cruel as it might sound, but pigeon meat is a delicacy in Assam. Any special occasion is incomplete without pigeon meat especially during the winters as pigeon meat helps in keeping your body warm. In Assam people prefer to eat this meat with Koldil (banana flower). However, as times are changing this traditional cuisine is also becoming a rare commodity in Assam and people are switching more towards Chicken meat.
Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura (Chicken with Bamboo Shoot)
Assam has a variety of dishes and each dish has its own unique taste. One such unique dish of Assam is Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura which is made with chicken mixed with bamboo shoots and lentils. Bamboo shoot on its own has a very strong smell and taste which might not suit everybody. But if you get used to the taste then this is a signature local dish and one of the most famous foods of Assam.
Pitha
Pitha is a sweet snack of Assam which is usually prepared during the Bihu festival. This traditional dish is made of rice flour with jaggery and coconut filling or sesame and jaggery filling. Pithas are usually cooked on an iron vessel kept on top of firewood on high flame but with the modern times changing a lot of people have steered cooking it in the gas stove. This is one of the most technical foods of Assam and needs a lot of precision to get the dish to turn out correctly.
Xaak aru Bhaji (Spinach and vegetables)
Xaak aru Bhaji is also a very common food in Assam and an everyday sort of dish that is a part of your lunch or dinner menu on a daily basis. People of Assam love eating greens and you will find this in almost every meal that you eat here. A must-try for those who love eating fresh green food.
Kol-phool with Duck/Chicken/Fish
One of the most famous foods of Assam and my personal favorite is this dish which is meat cooked in Banana flower or banana heart. This dish is loaded with nutritional goodness and people in Assam prefer to eat this with rice. As heavy as it looks but this dish is very light on the stomach.