Assamese Bilahir Tok (Tangy Tomato Chutney)
Introduction
“Bilahi” means tomatoes, and “Tok” translates to tangy or sour in Assamese. Assamese Bilahir Tok is a simple yet delightful chutney, bursting with the natural sweetness and tartness of fresh tomatoes. The recipe comes from the heart of Assamese cuisine, which is known for its subtle and balanced flavors. This tangy chutney is often prepared during festivals or special occasions as a condiment to complement various dishes. It’s made with the season’s freshest tomatoes, gently spiced with Panch Phoran Masala, and seasoned with turmeric, red chili powder, and a touch of sugar to balance the sourness.
This chutney is not only easy to make, but itβs also incredibly versatile, perfect for serving with both rice and rotis. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant, zesty side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix for a meal or a dish to impress your guests, Assamese Bilahir Tok is a delightful addition to your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 6 medium-sized |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
| Salt | To taste |
| For Tempering | |
| Mustard oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Panch Phoran Masala | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay leaves (Tej Patta) | 2 leaves |
| Dry Red Chilli | 1, halved |
Allergen Information
This dish is naturally free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts. It contains mustard oil, so itβs important to note if you have any mustard allergies.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This chutney is completely vegetarian, making it an excellent addition to any vegetarian meal.
- Gluten-Free: There is no gluten in this recipe, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Vegan: The chutney is vegan-friendly, as it contains no animal products.
Preparation
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempering:
Begin by heating a kadai or pan over medium heat. Add mustard oil to the pan. Once the oil begins to smoke, itβs time to add the tempering ingredients. Add Panch Phoran Masala, bay leaves, and dry red chili to the hot oil, allowing them to sizzle and release their flavors into the oil. This creates a wonderful aroma. -
Cook the Tomatoes:
Now, add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir to coat the tomatoes with the flavored oil. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and sugar. Stir everything together to ensure the tomatoes are well-seasoned. -
Simmer the Mixture:
Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and allow the tomatoes to cook for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. The tomatoes will soften and begin to break down, releasing their juices. -
Final Cooking:
Continue to cook the mixture, uncovered, until all the moisture has evaporated and the oil begins to separate from the tomato mixture. This means the chutney is done and ready to be served. -
Serve:
Once the chutney reaches a thick consistency, turn off the heat. Your Assamese Bilahir Tok is now ready to serve! Pair it with your favorite rice or roti, and enjoy the vibrant, tangy flavors of this traditional Assamese side dish.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your personal preference. If you prefer a sweeter chutney, you can add a little more sugar.
- Make it spicier: For a spicier kick, increase the quantity of red chili powder or add extra dry red chilies during the tempering step.
- Freshness is key: This recipe relies on the freshness of the tomatoes. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Add a twist: Some variations of Bilahir Tok include adding a touch of ginger or garlic for added flavor complexity. You can experiment with these ingredients if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 35 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Conclusion
Assamese Bilahir Tok is a wonderfully tangy and sweet chutney that can elevate any meal with its bold flavors. The combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic Panch Phoran Masala, and the slight sweetness from sugar makes it a delightful condiment for a variety of dishes. Its simplicity is matched only by its versatility, making it an ideal accompaniment to rice, rotis, or even as a dip for snacks.
In just under 15 minutes, you can prepare a batch of this chutney, which will bring a fresh burst of flavor to your dining table. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement a hearty meal or a flavorful condiment to balance out a spicy curry, Bilahir Tok is a must-try recipe. So, grab the freshest tomatoes and get cooking to bring this Assamese specialty to your kitchen today!
