If you are looking to experience the authentic taste of Assamese cuisine, then Chicken with Bamboo Shoot (locally known as Khorisa Maasor Mankho) is a must-try. With a unique combination of tender chicken and aromatic bamboo shoots, this traditional delicacy brings out the rich culinary heritage of Assam.
It is a favourite of many Assamese families, especially when you want something earthy, spicy and full of flavour. In this blog, we will guide you through the origin of the dish, the cultural significance of bamboo shoots in Assam and how you can prepare this delicious dish at home.
Why Bamboo Shoots in Assamese Cuisine?
Bamboo shoots, or khorisa, play an essential role in Assamese cuisine. They are often fermented and used in curries, chutneys and pickles, adding a tangy, slightly sour flavour to dishes. The practice of fermenting bamboo shoots is deeply ingrained in Assamese culinary culture, especially among the indigenous communities, where it is both a method of preservation and a flavour enhancer.
In Khorisa Maasor Mankho, the aromatic bamboo shoots balance the richness of the chicken, creating a delicious contrast of flavours that makes this dish truly special.
Ingredients for Khorisa Maasor Mankho
To make this delightful Assamese chicken dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken – 500 grams (cut into pieces)
- Fermented bamboo shoot (khorisa) – 4-5 tablespoons
- Onions – 2 medium-sized (sliced)
- Ginger-garlic paste – 2 tablespoons
- Green chilies – 3-4 (slit)
- Tomatoes – 1 medium-sized (chopped)
- Mustard oil – 3-4 tablespoons
- Turmeric powder – 1 teaspoon
- Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
- Cumin powder – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Chicken with Bamboo Shoot
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken pieces with salt and turmeric powder. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes to let the spices soak into the meat.
2. Heat Mustard Oil
In a kadhai or deep pan, heat mustard oil until it begins to smoke. Lower the heat and allow the oil to cool slightly before adding the ingredients.
3. Fry Onions and Spices
Add the sliced onions and sauté them until golden brown. Next, add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, stirring until the raw aroma of the ginger and garlic disappears.
4. Add Tomatoes and Spice Powders
Now, add the chopped tomatoes to the mixture and cook until they become soft and start releasing oil. Then, add the coriander and cumin powders and mix well.
5. Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to coat them in the flavorful masala. Let the chicken cook on medium heat until it turns golden brown.
6. Add Fermented Bamboo Shoots (Khorisa)
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to add the main ingredient: fermented bamboo shoots. Add the khorisa to the curry and mix well with the chicken and spices. The aromatic flavor of the bamboo shoots will start to permeate the curry.
7. Simmer the Curry
Lower the heat and cover the pan with a lid. Let the curry simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak in the flavors of the bamboo shoots. You can add a little water if you prefer a thinner consistency, but the dish is typically cooked with very little gravy.
8. Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is tender and the curry has a rich, tangy aroma, garnish it with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti for a delicious Assamese meal.
Why You’ll Love Chicken with Bamboo Shoots
- Unique Flavors: The tangy, sour notes of fermented bamboo shoots paired with the rich and tender chicken make this dish a flavor-packed experience.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Bamboo shoots are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They add a nutritional element to the dish without overwhelming the flavors of the chicken.
- Traditional Assamese Dish: Khorisa Maasor Mankho is a dish that brings a taste of Assam’s culinary traditions right to your table. It’s perfect for those who love exploring regional Indian cuisine.
Tips for Making the Perfect Khorisa Maasor Mankho
- Use mustard oil: To get that authentic Assamese flavor, always cook with mustard oil. It adds a sharp, pungent taste that pairs well with bamboo shoots.
- Adjust the tanginess: Depending on your preference, you can increase or reduce the amount of fermented bamboo shoot (khorisa) in the curry. If you’re new to its strong flavor, start with a smaller quantity and add more as needed.
- Control the heat: Assamese dishes usually have a moderate level of spiciness, but you can adjust the number of green chilies based on your heat tolerance.
Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoots
Chicken with Bamboo Shoot are not only delicious but also have many health benefits. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. Bamboo shoots are also rich in essential nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, vitamins A and B6, which contribute to heart health, better digestion and a stronger immune system.
Cultural Significance of Khorisa in Assam
Bamboo shoots (khorisa) are more than just an ingredient in Assam. They are part of a long tradition of fermentation and preservation, a practice that dates back centuries. Assamese households ferment bamboo shoots during the monsoon season to preserve them and use them in curries, pickles, and chutneys throughout the year. This method of preservation is not only convenient but also adds a rich flavor that fresh bamboo shoots cannot provide.
Final Thoughts
Chicken with Bamboo Shoot (Khorisa Maasor Mankho) is a dish that epitomizes the essence of Assamese cuisine. Its unique flavours, combined with the rich history and cultural significance of bamboo shoots, make this dish a must-try for anyone looking to experience traditional Indian cuisine. Whether you are an adventurous foodie or someone with roots in Assam, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds with its blend of aromatic, spicy and earthy flavours. So why not try making Khorisa Maasor Mankho at home?
With just a few ingredients, you can bring the authentic flavours of Assam to your dining table.
FAQs
- Where can I buy fermented bamboo shoots? You can find fermented bamboo shoots at most Indian grocery stores or specialty Asian markets. They may come in jars or cans.
- Can I use fresh bamboo shoots instead of fermented ones? Yes, fresh bamboo shoots can be used, but you’ll miss the tangy flavor that fermented bamboo shoots add to the dish.
- Is this dish spicy? The level of spiciness depends on how many chilies you use. The dish is moderately spicy, but you can adjust the heat according to your preference.
- What’s the best side dish for Khorisa Maasor Mankho? This dish pairs best with steamed rice, but you can also enjoy it with roti or traditional Assamese sticky rice.
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