General Knowledge of Assam - Complete Guide
Which Is Bamboo Rice Or Sunga Saul In Assam?
In Assam, Bamboo Rice is popularly known as Sunga Saul. Unlike regular rice varieties, Sunga Saul is not a separate grain but rather a unique traditional method of cooking rice inside a bamboo tube. The raw rice is placed inside freshly cut green bamboo, sealed with banana leaves, and then roasted over fire. The bamboo acts as a natural steamer, giving the rice a soft, aromatic, and slightly smoky flavor that is deeply loved in Assamese cuisine.
Sunga Saul is especially prepared during festivals, Bihu celebrations, and community feasts as it carries cultural importance and symbolizes tradition. It is often enjoyed with milk, curd, or jaggery, making it a wholesome and flavorful dish.
Though sometimes confused with the naturally occurring "bamboo seed rice" found in certain parts of India, in Assam Sunga Saul refers specifically to rice cooked inside bamboo, a culinary art that reflects the bond between nature and Assamese food culture.