Assamese Bilahir Tok (Tangy Tomato Side Dish)
Discover the vibrant and tangy flavors of Assamese Bilahir Tok, a traditional Assamese side dish that perfectly complements a variety of meals. This flavorful tomato-based recipe is made using simple ingredients and infused with aromatic spices, delivering a delightful burst of taste. Whether paired with hot Besan Chila (gram flour pancake) or enjoyed alongside a cup of Masala Tea, this recipe is sure to become a breakfast favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 6 |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Sugar | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mustard oil | 1 tbsp |
| Panch phoran masala (5-spice mix) | 1 tsp |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Dry red chili (halved) | 1 |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~80 kcal |
| Protein | ~1g |
| Carbohydrates | ~15g |
| Fat | ~4g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~200mg |
| Sugars | ~4g |
Instructions:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat mustard oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add panch phoran masala, bay leaves, and dry red chili. Cook for 15 seconds. |
| 2 | Add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. SautΓ© for 2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften. |
| 3 | Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and sugar. Stir well and let the mixture cook for another 2 minutes. |
| 4 | Reduce the flame to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. |
| 5 | Once the tomatoes have softened and the spices have infused, turn off the gas and let the dish cool slightly. |
| 6 | Serve the Assamese Bilahir Tok hot with Besan Chila (gram flour pancakes) and Masala Tea for a traditional Assamese breakfast experience. |
Serving Suggestions:
The Assamese Bilahir Tok is a tangy and aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of breakfast or lunch items. Some serving suggestions include:
- Besan Chila (gram flour pancake): A savory pancake made from chickpea flour, seasoned with spices and vegetables.
- Masala Tea: A flavorful tea brewed with a blend of aromatic spices such as cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon.
- Steamed Rice: Serve alongside steamed rice for a simple, comforting meal.
Tips:
- Adjust Spice Levels: You can adjust the red chili powder according to your spice tolerance. For a milder flavor, reduce the quantity of chili powder.
- Mustard Oil: The unique flavor of mustard oil is essential to this recipe, giving it an authentic Assamese taste. However, if mustard oil is unavailable, you can substitute it with regular vegetable oil.
- Sweetness Balance: The sugar adds a hint of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the tomatoes. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste, depending on how tangy or sweet you prefer the dish.
- Serving Ideas: This dish can also be served as a topping for parathas or roti, making it a versatile accompaniment to many meals.
Why You’ll Love Assamese Bilahir Tok:
The unique combination of spices and the tanginess of tomatoes creates a flavor profile that is distinct to Assamese cuisine. This Assamese Bilahir Tok brings together the earthy flavor of panch phoran masala (a traditional 5-spice mix), the warmth of turmeric, and the subtle sweetness of sugar, making it an unforgettable addition to any meal. Quick and easy to prepare, itβs an excellent side dish that will transport your taste buds straight to Assam.
If you’re looking to explore authentic Assamese flavors in your cooking, this simple yet delicious recipe is the perfect starting point!
