A Taste of Tradition: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Assamese Food Khar.

Sure! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make Assamese food Khar:

Ingredients:

250 grams raw papaya (you can also use other vegetables like raw banana or taro root)

1 tablespoon grated raw papaya (to be used as a garnish)

1 tablespoon grated coconut (optional, for garnish)

1 tablespoon mustard oil

2 cups water

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

Salt to taste

For Khar Masala:

1 tablespoon raw papaya skin ashes (traditional Khar powder)

OR 1 teaspoon baking soda (to be used as a substitute for raw papaya skin ashes)

1/2 cup water

Step 1:

If you have raw papaya skin ashes (traditional Khar powder), skip this step. Otherwise, to prepare the Khar powder substitute, take 1 teaspoon of baking soda and mix it with 1/2 cup of water. Stir well and set it aside.

Step 2:

Peel and chop the raw papaya into small pieces. You can also use other vegetables like raw banana or taro root if you prefer.

Step 3: 

In a pot or a kadhai, add the chopped raw papaya and 2 cups of water.

Step 4: 

Add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder and salt to taste to the pot.

Step 5: 

Cover the pot and cook the raw papaya on medium heat until it becomes tender. This will take about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: 

While the raw papaya is cooking, take the Khar masala (either the traditional raw papaya skin ashes or the baking soda mixture) and strain it to remove any impurities.

Step 7: 

Once the raw papaya is cooked and tender, add the strained Khar masala to the pot. Stir well to mix.

Step 8: 

Add 1 tablespoon of grated raw papaya to the Khar and mix it in. This is done for added texture and flavor.

Step 9:

If using grated coconut for garnish, add it to the Khar and mix.

Step 10: 

Drizzle 1 tablespoon of mustard oil over the Khar for a distinct Assamese flavor.

Step 11: 

Bring the Khar to a gentle boil and let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.

Step 12: 

Once the Khar is ready, turn off the heat, and it's ready to serve.

Step 13: 

Serve the Assamese food Khar as a side dish with steamed rice. It is traditionally enjoyed with other Assamese delicacies.

That's it! You have successfully made Assamese food Khar. This unique dish is known for its use of alkali, which gives it a distinctive taste. Enjoy its subtle flavors and the delightful combination of raw papaya and Khar masala.