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They are an essential component of the local agricultural environment since they flourish in the tropical and subtropical climate of the area. Assamese cuisine is closely linked to the utilisation of local fruits. The distinct flavours and tastes of traditional Assamese cuisines, pickles, and beverages are enhanced by these fruits.
Here is a list of unique fruits from Assam:
1. Jujube( Bogori):
Bogori is a tiny, reddish-brown fruit that is often found in Assam. It is also known by the names Jujube and Indian Ber. Because of its sweet flavour, bogori is a delicious snack when eaten fresh. Bogori is mostly sweet, but it can also taste somewhat sour, giving it a well-balanced flavour. Particularly when it's ripe, the fruit has an apple-like crisp and crispy texture. Bogori enhances the whole sensory experience with its lovely and fragrant scent. Bogori is used in a variety of culinary preparations, such as jams, pickles, and traditional Assamese sweets, in addition to being relished fresh. Bogori is an excellent source of important nutrients, including as minerals, dietary fibre, and vitamins.
Video Credit: Youtube/ Assamese kitchen and vlogs
2. Star Fruit (Kordoi):
Star fruit is a tropical fruit with a distinctive look and flavour that is referred to as "Kordoi" in Assamese. Star fruit is a delightful and refreshing snack because of its gently sweet flavour.The flavour has faint citrus overtones that provide a touch of acidity to balance the whole thing out. Because of its high water content, the fruit has a juicy, crisp quality when eaten. Star fruit has a crisp, crunchy feel that is enjoyable to bite into when it is fully ripe. There may be a tiny tanginess, especially around the fruit's edges, depending on how ripe the fruit is. The fruit gets its name from its star-shaped slices, which also add to its visual attractiveness.
3. Peach (Ahom Bogori):
There is a unique variety of peach known as Ahom Bogori in Assam. These peaches are prized for their juicy, sweet flavour and are frequently eaten raw or in a variety of culinary preparations. Peaches are naturally sweet, and how sweet they are depends on how ripe the fruit is. Juicy and luscious in texture, the fruit's overall appeal is enhanced. When ripe, peaches have a fragrant aroma that adds to the flavour of the food. Certain types could contain a subtle acidity to counterbalance the sweetness. A ripe peach has velvety or fuzzy skin on top of soft flesh. Dietary fibre, which is found in peaches, supports healthy digestion and facilitates regular bowel motions.
4. Indian Coffee Plum (Ponial):
Ponial, the local term for Indian Coffee Plum in Assam, is a fruity and sweet flavour. The fruit is succulent and juicy, making for a cool eating experience. Certain Indian Coffee Plum cultivars may possess a subtle astringency, contributing to the overall depth of flavour. As the name implies, some claim that the fruit has a faint scent somewhat reminiscent of coffee, which gives it a distinct personality. Ponial, like many other local fruits, is best savoured during the harvest season when it is at its ripest. Dietary fibre from the fruit helps to maintain a sensation of fullness and supports digestive health. Indian Coffee Plum is juicy and helps you stay hydrated, especially in hot weather.
5. Indian Olive (Jolphai):
The fruit known locally as Jolphai in Assam, or Indian olive, is indigenous to the northeastern section of India, especially Assam. It is a member of the family Elaeocarpaceae. Typically, jolphai tastes sour and sweet. The fruit's ripeness can cause a minor variation in taste; while the fruit is immature, it tastes somewhat acidic; as it ripens, it becomes sweeter. The fruit is well-known for its distinct scent, which is frequently characterised as a combination of moderate acidity and sweetness. Jolphai is a delicious fruit to eat, especially in the summer months, because of its juicy and succulent texture. It's also used to make chutneys and pickles.
6. Hog Plum (Amora):
The flavour of hog plums is well-known for being tart and tangy, and depending on how ripe the fruit is, it can taste anything from somewhat sour to quite sharp. Juicy, luscious pulp from the apple contributes to its cool flavour. A minor astringency may be present in some hog plum cultivars, which adds to the fruit's depth in flavour. Hog plums can have a pleasant, fragrant scent when completely mature, which adds to their allure. Hog plum can help with hydration because of its high water content, particularly in hot weather. Dietary fibre, which is good for the digestive system and can help avoid constipation, is present in the fruit.
