Assamese Amitar Khar Recipe: A Traditional Assamese Side Dish
The Assamese cuisine is known for its unique flavors and simple ingredients that bring out the essence of the region. Among the numerous traditional dishes, Assamese Amitar Khar stands out as a classic side dish that complements the main meal beautifully. Made with raw papaya and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is both delicious and nutritious. The tangy, mildly spicy flavors make it an excellent accompaniment to steamed rice, especially when paired with Thekera Tenga (a sour fish curry). In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of preparing this delightful Assamese dish.
Ingredients for Assamese Amitar Khar
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Papaya | 1 (de-skinned & chopped into small cubes) |
| Mustard Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Green Chillies | 3 (slit into halves) |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
| Panch Phoran Masala | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Kalonji (Onion Nigella Seeds) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1/4 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 5
Cuisine: Assamese
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Assamese Amitar Khar
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all the ingredients listed above. To start, peel and chop the raw papaya into small cubes. Set it aside. -
-
Pound the Panch Phoran:
In a mortar and pestle, grind the panch phoran (a mix of fennel seeds, cumin seeds, kalonji, mustard seeds, and fenugreek seeds) until it becomes a coarse powder. This will allow the spices to release their full aroma when cooked. You can also use a spice grinder if preferred. -
Heat the Oil:
In a kadai or large frying pan, heat mustard oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground panch phoran, bay leaf, and dry red chillies. Let them splutter for a few seconds. The spluttering spices will infuse the oil with their flavor. -
Add the Papaya and Green Chillies:
Add the chopped raw papaya and green chillies (slit in half) to the kadai. Stir well to coat the papaya with the flavored oil and spices. -
Cook the Papaya:
Cover the kadai with a lid and cook the papaya mixture on low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the papaya does not burn at the bottom. If needed, add a tablespoon of water to prevent the papaya from sticking to the pan. Cook until the papaya pieces are tender and fully cooked, and the water from the papaya evaporates completely. -
Season the Dish:
Once the papaya is soft and the flavors have melded together, add salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly. -
Serve:
Serve the Assamese Amitar Khar hot, alongside freshly steamed rice and a bowl of Thekera Tenga (Assamese sour fish curry), for a truly authentic Assamese meal experience.
Tips for the Best Assamese Amitar Khar
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add extra green chillies or even a pinch of red chili powder.
- Water Addition: Adding water helps to cook the papaya evenly, but make sure to cook the dish until all the water evaporates to concentrate the flavors.
- Mustard Oil: For a true Assamese taste, mustard oil is crucial. Its sharp flavor adds depth to the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Assamese Amitar Khar is a perfect balance of spice, tang, and texture. The raw papaya offers a slightly crunchy yet soft texture when cooked, and it absorbs the spices beautifully, creating a delightful contrast with the heat from the chillies and the aromatic blend of panch phoran. The mustard oil enhances the taste with its rich, pungent flavor, while the green chillies provide just the right amount of heat. This dish is simple, quick to prepare, and full of traditional Assamese flavors.
This easy-to-make, wholesome side dish pairs wonderfully with rice, making it an ideal addition to your lunch or dinner spread. With just a few ingredients, you can recreate the authentic flavors of Assam in your kitchen, bringing a touch of Indian heritage to your table. Enjoy!
