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Assam Pitha Recipe Traditional Delight from Assam
Assam pitha recipe is a beloved traditional dish from the northeastern state of Assam in India. This delicacy is made mainly during festivals like Bihu and is cherished for its simplicity and rich taste. Assam pitha is a type of rice cake that is both soft and flavorful. If you love exploring Indian regional foods, this recipe is a must-try!
In this blog, I will guide you step-by-step on how to make authentic Assam pitha at home. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, this Assam pitha recipe will help you enjoy this cultural delight easily. Also, it pairs wonderfully with popular dishes like dahi bhale.
What is Assam Pitha?
Assam pitha is a rice-based cake or dumpling made from ground rice flour. It is often stuffed or served plain, and sometimes cooked with jaggery or coconut. The texture is soft and chewy, making it a perfect snack or dessert.
Different varieties of pitha exist in Assam, including:
- Tekeli pitha (steamed in a pot)
- Til pitha (stuffed with sesame seeds and jaggery)
- Ghila pitha (fried version)
This recipe focuses on a simple and easy-to-make Assam pitha that anyone can prepare.
Ingredients for Assam Pitha Recipe
- 2 cups rice flour (preferably roasted)
- 1 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
- ½ cup jaggery (grated) or sugar
- Water (as required)
- A pinch of salt
- Oil or ghee for greasing the pan
Optional:
- Cardamom powder for flavor
- Sesame seeds
How to Make Assam Pitha: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Flour Dough
Take roasted rice flour in a mixing bowl. Add a pinch of salt and little warm water slowly. Mix it well until it forms a soft, pliable dough. Be careful not to add too much water.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In another bowl, mix grated coconut with jaggery or sugar. You can add cardamom powder to enhance the flavor. Mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Shape the Pitha
Take a small ball of dough. Flatten it gently on your palm or a banana leaf. Place a spoonful of coconut-jaggery filling in the center. Fold it carefully and seal the edges.
Step 4: Cook the Pitha
You can steam or shallow fry the pitha. For steaming, arrange pithas in a steamer and cook for 10-15 minutes. For shallow frying, heat a pan with little oil and fry till golden brown on both sides.
Tips for Perfect Assam Pitha
- Use freshly roasted rice flour for best taste.
- Adjust jaggery sweetness to your liking.
- Serve Assam pitha warm for the best experience.
- Pair with dahi bhale or fresh curd to balance flavors.
Why Assam Pitha is Special
Assam pitha reflects the rich culture and culinary tradition of Assam. It is a dish that brings family and friends together during festivals. Its mild sweetness and soft texture make it loved by all age groups.
Serving Suggestions for Assam Pitha
Assam pitha goes well with:
- Fresh homemade dahi bhale
- Hot tea or milk
- A side of spicy chutney
Final Thoughts
The Assam pitha recipe is a simple yet delightful way to experience Assamese culture through food. This traditional dish is easy to prepare, healthy, and tastes amazing with accompaniments like dahi bhale. Try this recipe at home to bring a piece of Assam’s heritage to your kitchen. Enjoy the soft texture, subtle sweetness, and the warm flavors that make Assam pitha a favorite among many.
FAQ
Yes, you can replace jaggery with sugar or honey, but jaggery gives an authentic flavor.
Yes, since it’s made with rice flour, it is naturally gluten-free.
Store cooked pitha in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Yes, you can freeze raw or cooked pitha. Thaw and reheat before eating.
Traditionally, it’s served with dahi bhale or curd. You can also enjoy it with tea.
