Ghugni - A Spicy Delight From The Heart Of Assam

Ghugni - A Spicy Delight From The Heart Of Assam

Ghugni is a beloved and flavorful Assamese street food made from dried white peas (motor), slow-cooked with aromatic spices to create a wholesome, spicy snack. Popular across Assam, especially in towns and marketplaces, Motor Ghugni is enjoyed by people of all ages and is often served with puffed rice (muri), chopped onions, green chillies, and a dash of mustard oil.

This simple yet delicious dish reflects the culinary essence of Assamese daily life—flavorful, nutritious, and prepared with minimal ingredients.

Origin and Popularity in Assam

Motor Ghugni is a common household preparation and also a staple in street-side food stalls and local bazaars. Though similar to the Ghugni found in Bengal and Bihar, the Assamese version is spicier, tangier, and often includes local ingredients like bamboo shoot or mustard oil, giving it a unique regional twist.

It is especially popular during:

  • Evening tea-time

  • Street food festivals

  • Local gatherings and fairs

  • As a quick and affordable snack for school or college students

Ingredients Used in Ghugni

The recipe for Motor Ghugni is simple but flavorful. Common ingredients include:

  • Dried white peas (soaked overnight)

  • Onions and tomatoes

  • Ginger-garlic paste

  • Green chilies and red chili powder

  • Mustard oil (for an authentic Assamese flavor)

  • Turmeric and salt

  • Garam masala or homemade spice blend

  • Optional toppings: chopped coriander, tamarind water, muri (puffed rice)

The dish is typically garnished with raw onions, green chillies, and a splash of mustard oil, giving it a zesty and rustic flavor that is instantly addictive.

Ghugni Preparation Method

  1. Soak the dried white peas overnight, then boil until soft.

  2. In a pan, heat mustard oil, sauté onions, tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, and spices.

  3. Add the boiled peas and simmer on low flame until the flavors are well combined.

  4. Serve hot with puffed rice or as a standalone dish, garnished with chopped onions, coriander, and mustard oil.

Some households also add a bit of lime juice or tamarind water for an extra kick of tanginess.

Where to Find Motor Ghugni in Assam

Motor Ghugni is widely available across:

  • Street food stalls across Assam

  • Railway station food vendors

  • Local fairs, festivals, and weekly markets (haats)

It’s not only a treat to the taste buds but also a budget-friendly, protein-rich snack that has stood the test of time.

Cultural Relevance

More than just a snack, Motor Ghugni has become a symbol of everyday Assamese cuisine. It brings people together over conversations, chai, and memories. From roadside vendors to home kitchens, it remains a comforting and nostalgic food for many Assamese families.

In recent years, this humble dish has also gained popularity among food vloggers and Assamese cuisine enthusiasts who are working to bring regional recipes to global platforms.

Conclusion

Motor Ghugni represents the rich street food culture of Assam—simple, soulful, and bursting with flavor. Whether you're a local foodie or someone curious about Assamese cuisine, this dish is a must-try for its unique taste and cultural value.

So next time you're in Assam, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a hot plate of Motor Ghugni served with muri, mustard oil, and love.