Diversity of Authentic Assamese Cuisine
Assamese cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that has been shaped by the region’s history and geography.
Over the years, Assamese cuisine is considered one of the most diverse and flavorful regional cuisines of India. It has been praised by many notable figures, both within India and internationally.
One prominent figure who praised Assamese cuisine is the famous food critic, writer, and television personality, Anthony Bourdain. He visited Assam in his show “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown” and he praised the cuisine for its unique flavors and use of local ingredients. He said that the traditional method of cooking and the use of bamboo shoots gave a unique flavor to the food.
Assamese cuisine has also been praised by Indian chefs such as Sanjeev Kapoor, who have highlighted its unique use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
In addition, Assamese food has been praised by many food bloggers, food critics and travelers, who have visited Assam and tried the local food. They have praised it for its unique and authentic flavors, use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Overall, Assamese cuisine has garnered a reputation for being delicious and unique, gaining recognition and praise from both local and international figures.
Here is a list of some key historical facts about Assamese cuisine:
- The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region’s riverine environment, with fish and other aquatic animals being a staple ingredient.
- The use of bamboo shoot is a very common in Assamese cuisine and it is often used in curries, pickles, and fermented dishes.
- Assamese cuisine is heavily influenced by the neighboring states of Bengal and Myanmar, as well as by the various ethnic groups that have inhabited the region over the centuries.
- The traditional diet of the people of Assam is largely vegetarian and it is heavily dependent on rice, pulses and vegetables.
- Assamese cuisine is known for its use of herbs and spices such as ginger, garlic, turmeric, and chili peppers, which are used to add flavor and depth to dishes.
- The use of local ingredients like local fish, dhekia (a type of fern), and various types of wild greens are common in Assamese cuisine.
- The traditional way of cooking food in Assam is using wood fire and earthenware which gives a unique flavor to the food.
- Tea is also an important part of Assamese cuisine, and is often served with meals or as a standalone beverage.
- Assamese cuisine is known for its use of fermented foods, such as fish, meat and vegetables, which are used to add flavor and depth to dishes.
- The traditional diet of the people of Assam is heavily dependent on rice, which is often consumed in the form of pitha (rice cakes), laru (balls made from glutinous rice) and xaak bhaji (greens).
- Assamese cuisine is also known for its use of a variety of wild fruits and berries, such as jackfruit, banana, and mango.
- The traditional methods of cooking in Assam include boiling, steaming, and roasting, with minimal use of oil.
- The use of bamboo shoots, which are a staple ingredient in the region, is unique to Assamese cuisine.
- Assamese cuisine is also known for its use of various types of meat, including chicken, fish, pork, and beef, which are often used in curries and stews.
- The traditional way of serving food in Assam is on a banana leaf, which is considered auspicious and is said to have medicinal properties.
Assamese cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that has been shaped by the region’s history and geography, and it continues to evolve with time. It has its own unique character, which makes it different from other Indian cuisines.