Thekera Tenga Recipe (Assamese Cuisine) – A Tangy Potato Delight
Thekera Tenga, an Assamese delicacy, is a beautiful blend of flavors with a hint of tanginess that adds depth to its simple yet delicious ingredients. This comforting vegetarian dish is made using tender potatoes, complemented by the earthy warmth of turmeric, the sharpness of lemon juice (or thekera), and the boldness of Panch Phoran masala. It is the perfect accompaniment to a plate of steamed rice or flatbreads, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 4, thinly sliced |
| Mustard oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Rice flour (or mashed potato) | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice (or Thekera soaked in water) | 2 teaspoons (or 3-4 pieces soaked in 1/4 cup water) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mustard oil (for tempering) | 1 teaspoon |
| Panch Phoran Masala | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies | 4, roughly chopped |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 4 sprigs, finely chopped |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~2 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~26 g |
| Fat | ~4 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Assamese
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Fry the Potatoes:
Begin by heating a wide pan on medium heat and adding 1 tablespoon of mustard oil. Once the oil heats up, add the thinly sliced potato pieces and shallow fry them until they turn golden and crisp. Remove the potatoes from the pan and set them aside. -
Temper the Spices:
In the same pan, add an additional 1 teaspoon of mustard oil. Allow the oil to heat, then add the Panch Phoran masala and green chillies. Let the spices crackle for a few seconds, releasing their fragrant aromas. -
Create the Base Sauce:
Next, add 1 to 2 cups of water to the pan, along with salt and turmeric powder. Stir to combine, allowing the water to come to a simmer. The turmeric will infuse the water with a warm golden color. -
Thicken the Sauce:
Mix the rice flour with 1 tablespoon of water (or use 1 mashed potato as an alternative) to create a smooth paste. Add this paste to the simmering water, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to cook for a few minutes until it begins to thicken into a smooth, slightly creamy sauce. -
Add the Tanginess:
Once the sauce has thickened, add the lemon juice (or thekera water if using) for that signature tangy kick. Stir well to incorporate the flavor. -
Combine with Fried Potatoes:
Gently add the fried potato pieces back into the pan, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook the potatoes in the sauce over low heat for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the potatoes are well cooked and infused with the tangy sauce, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish the Thekera Tenga with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve hot with steamed rice or flatbreads for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Thekera Tenga is best enjoyed with steamed rice for a traditional Assamese meal. You can also pair it with roti or paratha for a more substantial dinner. Its tangy, flavorful sauce makes it a refreshing addition to any meal, especially when served on the side.
Tips and Variations:
- Thekera Substitution: If you cannot find thekera (dried tamarind-like fruit), simply use lemon juice to achieve the tangy flavor, as suggested in the recipe.
- For a Spicier Kick: Adjust the number of green chillies to suit your spice tolerance. For an extra spicy version, you can add a pinch of red chili powder along with the turmeric.
- For a Creamier Texture: Instead of rice flour, you can also use mashed potato to thicken the sauce, which will give the dish a creamier consistency.
- Add More Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, or carrots to make the dish more hearty and nutritious.
Conclusion:
Thekera Tenga is a wonderfully tangy and comforting dish that showcases the beauty of Assamese cuisine. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect dish to add to your weekday dinner repertoire. The combination of fried potatoes, aromatic spices, and tangy sauce creates a delightful flavor profile that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether served with steamed rice or flatbreads, this dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.
