Assamese Khar
Khar is a unique and fundamental element of Assamese cuisine, representing an alkaline preparation derived from the ashes of burnt banana peels or other plant materials. It's not a dish in itself but an essential ingredient that imparts a distinct flavor and tenderizing quality to various preparations. Traditionally, an Assamese meal begins with a Khar dish, often made with vegetables like papaya, pulses, or even fish heads, where Khar is the star ingredient. It's believed to aid digestion and cleanse the palate.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Khar (alkaline liquid)
- 2 tbsp Mustard oil
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Green chilies, slit
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- to taste Salt
- as needed Water
- 2 cups Main Ingredient (e.g., raw papaya cubes, bottle gourd cubes, lentils)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Khar: Traditionally, Khar is made by burning the dried peels of 'Bhim Kol' (a type of banana) until they turn to ash. This ash is then mixed with water, allowed to settle, and the clear liquid is filtered and stored. This liquid is the 'Khar'. (Note: For convenience, readily available 'Soda Khar' or baking soda can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ).
💡 Tip: Authentic Khar is made from banana peel ashes, but substitutes are common. - 2
Prepare the main ingredient: Wash and chop your chosen vegetable (e.g., raw papaya, bottle gourd) or pulse into bite-sized pieces.
💡 Tip: The type of vegetable or pulse used can vary widely. - 3
Temper the oil: Heat mustard oil in a wok or heavy-bottomed pan until it just begins to smoke. Add minced garlic, slit green chilies, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Mustard oil is the traditional cooking medium for Assamese dishes. - 4
Add main ingredient and sauté: Add the prepared vegetables or pulses to the pan. Sauté for a few minutes. Add turmeric powder and salt.
💡 Tip: Sautéing helps to slightly cook the main ingredient before adding liquid. - 5
Incorporate Khar: Add the Khar liquid to the pan. Mix well. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
💡 Tip: Khar is added at this stage to help tenderize the ingredients and impart its unique flavor. - 6
Simmer and cook: Reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer until the main ingredient is tender and the gravy reaches your desired consistency. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
💡 Tip: The cooking time will vary depending on the main ingredient used. - 7
Serve: Adjust salt if needed. Assamese Khar is typically served hot with plain steamed rice.
💡 Tip: Khar dishes are considered digestive and are often the first item served in an Assamese meal.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to a good Khar dish is the right amount of Khar liquid; too much can make it overly bitter or soapy.
- ✓Common vegetables used in Khar include raw papaya, bottle gourd, pumpkin, and various leafy greens.
- ✓Khar is believed to have health benefits, aiding digestion and cleansing the stomach.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Papaya Khar (Amita Khar): Made with raw papaya.
- Bottle Gourd Khar (Law Khar): Made with bottle gourd.
- Lentil Khar (Dal Khar): Made with various types of lentils.
- Fish Head Khar: A delicacy using fish heads for flavor.