Assamese Pitha Recipe: A Delightful Traditional Dish

Are you craving a taste of authentic Assamese cuisine? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process and share a detailed Assamese Pitha recipe, a delectable traditional dish from the northeastern state of Assam, India. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the unique flavors and textures of this delightful treat.

Pitha is a unique category of rice preparation that is often exclusively cooked on festive occasions like Bihu in Assam. Bora saul, a specific variety of glutinous rice, or xaali saul, or sun-dried rice, is frequently used to make Assamese pithas.

What is Assamese Pitha?

A popular rice cake in Assam is called pitha. It is a dish that can be used as a main course, a dessert, or even a snack. Pitha from Assam is renowned for its explosion of flavors and its adaptability to any time of day.

Here’s the Assamese Pitha recipe for beginners with ingredients and cooking instructions:

Ingredients:

To prepare Assamese Pitha, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of rice flour
• 1 cup of grated coconut
• 1 cup of jaggery (or brown sugar) for sweet Pithas
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder
• Water (as required)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Preparing the Assamese Pitha:

Making the Dough:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, salt, fennel seeds, and cardamom powder.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture while kneading the dough. Ensure that the dough is smooth and pliable.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for approximately 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling:

1. In a separate bowl, mix the grated coconut and jaggery (or brown sugar) for sweet Pithas. You can adjust the sweetness according to your preference.

Assembling and Cooking:

1. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball into a small disc using your palms.
2. Place a spoonful of the coconut-jaggery mixture (or any other desired filling) in the center of the disc.
3. Fold the edges of the disc towards the center, covering the filling entirely. Seal the edges by pinching them together.
4. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling, creating multiple Pithas.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
6. Carefully place the Pithas into the hot oil and fry them until they turn golden brown on both sides.
7. Remove the Pithas from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.

Serving Suggestions:

Assamese Pitha can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Serve them hot with a cup of tea for a delightful breakfast or evening snack.
• Drizzle some honey or syrup on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Pair them with a dollop of yogurt or cream for a creamy twist.

Assamese Pitha is a mouthwatering delicacy that showcases the unique flavors of Assamese cuisine. With its simple preparation and versatile nature, it is a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to the authentic taste of Assam by trying this delightful Assamese Pitha recipe at home? Bon appétit!

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