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Published 16:20 IST, January 4th 2024

Must-try Northeast dishes to give you an unforgettable culinary experience on your next trip

The Northeast is not just limited to beautiful sights but also offers an unforgettable culinary experience.

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Exotic dishes of Assam
The Northeast is not just limited to beautiful sights but also offers an unforgettable culinary experience. | Image: Pinterest

The Northeast India is not just confined to exploring the sights and sceneries. It also offers a varied range of unique dishes immersed in the rich culture and traditions of the place. If you are someone who is planning to visit the Northeast India, make sure you try these dishes for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Khar, Assam

Khar (alkali) is a traditional food of Assam. Natural Khar is prepared by filtering water through the ashes of pseudostem, corm and fruit skin of banana named Bhimkol in Assamese (a seeded banana variety). The parts of banana plant are dried under the sun.

File photo | Unsplash

Kumurat diya hanhor mangxo, Assam

The duck is slow-cooked with ash gourd and a slew of spices, including black pepper and squashed cardamom until it is tender and juicy. You can then add onion, ginger, and garlic to it for additional flavour. This dish is usually served with steamed rice during celebratory events, and it is a must-try for anyone visiting Assam.

Representative image credits: Unsplash

Pitha, Assam

In Assam, tasty pitha is a special type of rice preparation which is prepared only on special occasions like Bihu. Assamese pithas are often made from bora saul. It is a special kind of glutinous rice, or xaali saul, or sun-dried rice. Dumplings or pithas are loaded with a protein-rich and spicy filling.

Representative image credits: Unsplash

Fish Tenga, Assam

Masor Tenga or tangy fish curry is another traditional dish of Assam. In Assamese, Mas means fish and Tenga means sour. The use of tomatoes in this recipe gives it a tangy flavour. It also has many health benefits and contains generous amounts of energy, protein, carbohydrate and fat. 

Sanpiau, Mizoram

Sanpiau is a popular delicious snack from the Mizoram region. It contains rice porridge which is served with fresh coriander paste, crushed black pepper, spring onions, fish sauce.


Vawksa rep, Mizoram

Mizo Vawksa is a widespread traditional non-veg dish of Mizoram. The cuisine of Mizoram is based on the non-vegetarian dishes. The  scrumptious dish is prepared with pork and other herbs.

Smoked pork, Nagaland

Samathu or smoked pork is a popular dish of Nagaland. It was originated from the Sema/Sumi district in the state. The dish contains fermented soybean or axone and is used with smoked pork to make a thick curry. A large amount of chilli powder is also added to make the dish spicy.

Bamboo steamed fish, Nagaland

Bamboo steamed fish is a Naga style steamed fish, is an  authentic dish which is prevalent found in all Naga families. The main ingredients are red dried chilies, fresh fish, garlic, bamboo shoot squeeze, and salt.

Updated 16:24 IST, January 4th 2024