Let's savor the vibrant flavors of Assam with a delicious fruit extravaganza!
Assam, one of Northeast India's 'seven sisters', is a fruit paradise waiting to be explored. With vast farmlands and perfect weather, this state is brimming with delicious fruits. Imagine hilly slopes filled with seasonal fruits thriving in a tropical and subtropical climate. These fruits aren’t just tasty—they’re key players in Assamese cuisine, adding flair to traditional dishes, pickles, and drinks. Ready for a fruity adventure? Here are some must-try fruits from Assam!
Star fruit, known as "Kordoi" in Assamese, is a tropical delight with a unique look and flavor. Its mildly sweet taste with a hint of citrus makes it a refreshing snack. Thanks to its high water content, star fruit is juicy and crisp, perfect for a bite. When fully ripe, it has a satisfying crunch with a slight tanginess, especially around the edges. The star-shaped slices not only taste great but look fantastic too!
Peaches are a big deal in Assam! The state is known for its special low-chilling variety, perfect for the summer season. These peaches are high-quality and packed with proteins, vitamins, minerals, and sugar. When they're ripe, they're soft, juicy, and absolutely delicious. If you ever visit Assam, you have to try their amazing peaches!
Bogori, also known as Jujube or Indian Ber, is a tiny, reddish-brown fruit commonly found in Assam. It's a tasty snack with a mostly sweet flavour, sometimes with a hint of tartness for a perfect balance. When ripe, bogori has a crisp, apple-like texture and a lovely, fragrant scent. You can enjoy it fresh or in various dishes like jams, pickles, and traditional Assamese sweets. Plus, bogori is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre!
Ponial, locally known as Indian Coffee Plum in Assam, offers a fruity and sweet flavour experience. This succulent fruit is juicy and refreshing to eat, with certain varieties having a subtle astringency that adds depth to its taste. Some even detect a faint coffee-like aroma, giving it a unique character. Ponial is best enjoyed during its ripe harvest season, offering dietary fibre that promotes fullness and digestive health. Its juicy nature also helps keep you hydrated, perfect for hot weather!
Hog plums are known for their zesty and tangy flavour, ranging from slightly sour to sharply tart depending on ripeness. Their juicy pulp is refreshingly cool, and some varieties even offer a hint of astringency, adding to their complexity. When fully ripe, they emit a wonderful fragrance that enhances their appeal. With their high water content, hog plums are perfect for staying hydrated in hot weather, and their dietary fibre supports digestive health, keeping things moving smoothly.
In Assam, Jolphai, or the Indian olive, is a local treat that dances between tangy and sweet flavors. When it's young, it packs a zesty punch, but as it ripens, it sweetens up nicely. Its aroma? Think of a fruity blend of mild acidity and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a juicy summer snack or spicing up your chutneys and pickles with a burst of Assamese flair!
Assam's fruits are a flavour fiesta! From sweet and tangy to sour and spicy, they thrive in the tropical climate, adding zest to both plates and traditions alike.
