Assamese Cuisine: What To Eat In Guwahati

Assamese cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors that reflects the vibrant culture and traditions of Assam. Rooted in simplicity and sustainability, it is celebrated for its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and minimalistic preparation techniques. Guwahati, the bustling gateway to Northeast India, offers a delightful array of dishes, making it the perfect place to explore this unique culinary heritage. Whether it's the elaborate Assamese thali or the lively street food, Guwahati has something for every food enthusiast.

In this blog, we'll take you on a flavorful journey through 10 must-try dishes that showcase the essence of Assamese cuisine. From traditional recipes served on thalis to quirky street delights, here's what you shouldn't miss in Guwahati.

Exploring Assamese Cuisine: A Heritage of Flavors

Assamese cuisine thrives on the principles of using fresh, local ingredients and embracing simplicity. Rice is the staple food, accompanied by lentils, fish, meat, and a variety of greens. Unique techniques like fermenting, steaming, and smoking enhance the depth of flavors. The cuisine stands out for its reliance on mustard oil, bamboo shoots, and locally grown spices.

A meal in Assam isn't complete without its signature dishes like Khaar, tangy fish curries which is called Masor Tenga, and hearty Pitika. The emphasis on balanced flavors ensures that each dish, whether savory or sweet, is deeply satisfying.

Now, let's delve into the heart of Assamese cuisine, exploring iconic dishes and where to find them in Guwahati.

Must-Try Dishes in Assamese Cuisine

1 Masor Tenga (Tangy Fish Curry)

A signature dish in Assamese households, Masor Tenga is a light and tangy fish curry that refreshes the palate. In Assamese language the word "Tenga" translates to "sour". This osurness is achieved by tomatoes, elephant apples, dried mangosteen, raw mango and lemon. This dish is often savoured in the hotter months, as it other than tasting delectable, is quite good for digestion. Made with minimal tempering spices typically fenugreek, panch phoron, or mustard seeds which let the natural flavors shine. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, making it a staple in an Assamese thali.

• Ingredients: Fish (typically rohu or catla), tomatoes, lime juice or elephant apples.
• Where to Try: Many traditional eateries and famous restaurants in Guwahati serve this dish.

2 Paror Mangxo (Pigeon Meat Curry)

Considered an exquisite delicacy in Assamese cuisine, Paror Mangxo or Pigeon Meat Curry is a rich, spiced pigeon meat curry often reserved for special occasions. It is mostly consumed in the colder months as it provides good amount of heat in the body. This dish is paired with banana flower or is more commonly known in Assamese as "Koldil". It is known for its earthy flavor and is combined cooked with ginger, garlic, and black pepper.

• Ingredients: Pigeon meat, ginger, garlic, and traditional spices.
• Where to Try: Various restaurants and local food stalls in Guwahati serves this.

3 Duck Meat Curry

Locally the dock is called "haa" and it holds a very special place in Assamese Cuisine. Duck meat is a favorite in Assam, and this curry is a star dish. It's again a dish that is loved in the cooler months. Prepared with the variety of ash gourd, "joha kumura", which, when cooked, exudes an aroma akin to the fragrant Joha rice. Cooked with aromatic spices ginger, garlic, green chilies, and black pepper adds a distinct flavor that appeals to meat lovers.The Uruka feast, a large celebration held the day before Magh Bihu, features this meal prominently.

• Ingredients: Duck meat, black pepper, spices, and sometimes ash gourd.
• Where to Try: Different popular restaurants in Guwahati.

4 Pitika

A quintessential Assamese side dish, Pitika is a comforting mash of vegetables or fish blended with mustard oil, onions, and green chilies. This simple Assamese dish, featuring the authentic flavors of the main ingredient enhanced by pungent mustard oil and aromatic spices, is a satisfying and flavorful comfort food that pairs perfectly with rice.It's simple, flavorful, and adds a touch of nostalgia in the Assamese Cuisine.

• Ingredients: Potatoes, brinjal, or can range upto a number of vegetables or fish, mustard oil, and onions, coriander.
• Where to Try: Found in most Assamese thali servings in Guwahati.

5 Pork with Bamboo Shoots and Black Lentils

This dish is a treat for those who love bold flavors. Tender pork is slow-cooked with fermented bamboo shoots and black lentils (urad dal), creating a robust, earthy taste.

• Ingredients: Pork, bamboo shoots, black lentils, and mustard oil.
• Where to Try: Different restaurants in Guwahati.

6 Patot Diya Maas (Steamed Fish Wrapped in Banana Leaf)

Patot Diya Maas is a delicacy in Assamese Cuisine where fresh water fish, is combined withherbs like coriander, cilantro, or sawtooth coriander, along with chopped onions, chillies, salt, and mustard oil. Then these fishes are steamed in banana leaf or at times in Turmeric leaf which leaves behind an aromaticfresh essence that is loved by fish lovers.

• Ingredients: Fresh fish, sawtooth coriander, green chilies, and banana leaves or turmeric leaves.
• Where to Try: Various restaurants in Guwahati.

7 Khaar

Khaar is an alkaline-based dish unique to Assamese cuisine. Made with raw papaya, pulses, and the main star is the alkaline water and sun burnt or smoked banana stems, This unique dish is served served as the first course in a traditional meal and is commonly made at homes in Assam.

• Ingredients: Raw papaya, pulses, dried banana stem, and mustard oil.
• Where to Try: Any traditional Assamese eatery in Guwahati.

8 Silkworms

A bold and adventurous dish, silkworms are stir-fried with onions and spices to create a crunchy, protein-rich snack. While it's not for everyone, it's a must-try for those seeking something different.

• Ingredients: Silkworms, onions, and spices.
• Where to Try: Can be seen at many street vendors or outlets in Guwahati.

9 Thukpa

Though borrowed from Tibetan cuisine, Thukpa has found a special place in Guwahati. This noodle soup, with its Assamese twist, is perfect for a warm, comforting meal.

• Ingredients: Noodles, vegetables, or meat, and broth.
• Where to Try: In various street food stalls.

10 Pitha

A traditional sweet treat, Pitha is made with sticky rice, coconut, and jaggery. It's a staple during the Bihu festival and a nostalgic dessert for Assamese people.

• Ingredients: Sticky rice, coconut, jaggery, and sesame seeds.
• Where to Try: You can find them in traditional Assamese homes or specialty sweet shops in Guwahati.

The culinary landscape of Guwahati offers a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary dishes that highlight the essence of Assamese cuisine. From hearty thalis featuring khaar and pitika to adventurous bites like silkworms and street staples like Thukpa, there's something for everyone.

Whether you're savoring an elaborate Assamese thali or exploring the vibrant street food scene, Guwahati ensures that every meal is a memorable experience. So, pack your appetite and dive into the flavorful world of Assam - a journey that promises to be as enriching as it is delicious!