Assam GK Topic

What Is Khar In Assam? Traditional Assamese Recipe And Health Benefits Explained

Khar is a quintessential dish in Assamese cuisine, known for its unique preparation using alkaline water derived from the ashes of sun-dried banana stems or other plants. It is a mildly spicy and tangy dish, often made with raw papaya, pulses, or vegetables, and is traditionally served as part of an Assamese meal.
What Is Khar In Assam? Traditional Assamese Recipe And Health Benefits Explained illustration

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Detailed Notes

What is Khar?

Khar refers to a category of Assamese dishes prepared with a key ingredient—alkaline water called 'khar water.' This water is extracted by soaking ashes in water and straining it to obtain a mild alkaline solution, which is then used to cook vegetables or pulses. The alkalinity gives the dish a distinctive flavor and is believed to aid digestion.

Health Benefits of Khar

  • Aids Digestion: The alkaline nature helps neutralize acidity and improves digestion.

  • Rich in Nutrients: Made with fresh vegetables and pulses, providing vitamins and minerals.

  • Low in Fat: Typically cooked with minimal oil, making it a healthy choice.

  • Detoxifying Properties: Thought to cleanse the body by balancing pH levels.

How to Make Authentic Assamese Khar – Traditional Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup raw papaya (peeled and chopped)

  • 1 tablespoon khar water (alkaline water from banana stem ash)

  • 1-2 dried red chilies

  • 2 tablespoons mustard oil

  • Salt to taste

  • Water as needed

Method:

  1. Heat mustard oil in a pan and sauté dried red chilies until fragrant.

  2. Add chopped raw papaya and sauté for 2-3 minutes.

  3. Pour in water to cover the papaya, bring to a boil.

  4. Add khar water and salt, simmer on low heat until papaya is cooked tender.

  5. Serve hot with steamed rice as part of a traditional Assamese meal.

Variations of Khar

  • Khar with pulses like yellow lentils or chickpeas.

  • Vegetable Khar combining seasonal greens and vegetables.

  • Fish Khar for a non-vegetarian twist.

Khar is more than just a dish; it is a cultural symbol representing the simplicity and natural flavors of Assamese cuisine, celebrated for its taste and health benefits.