Vegetarian Assamese Bilahi Boror Tenga: Red Lentil Fritter Sour Curry

1 hour 10 minutes

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4 from 4 votes

About Vegetarian Assamese Bilahi Boror Tenga: Red Lentil Fritter Sour Curry

Discover the vibrant flavors of Assam with this vegetarian adaptation of Bilahi Boror Tenga, a traditional North Eastern Indian sour curry. Typically made with fish, this recipe substitutes crispy red lentil fritters for a delicious plant-based twist. The tangy broth is created using kokum and ripe tomatoes, offering a unique and satisfying culinary experience.
As a vegetarian, I've created this recipe to share the authentic taste of this Assamese specialty without compromising on flavor. The combination of the light, slightly sour curry and the satisfyingly crunchy fritters is a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Prepare for a culinary journey to the heart of Assam!
This recipe is perfect for those seeking a unique vegetarian curry experience, brimming with the aromatic spices and unique flavors of Assamese cuisine. It's surprisingly simple to make and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
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Recipe Time & More

Prep30 minutes
Cook40 minutes
Total1 hour 10 minutes
Calories110 kcal
Serves3
Served AsDinnerLunch
Recipe TasteSaltySpicy

Ingredients
 

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Instructions
 

Prepare the Red Lentil Fritters

  • Drain the soaked red lentils and grind them into a coarse paste, adding a little water if needed.
  • Transfer the paste to a bowl, add salt and turmeric powder, and mix well.
  • Heat a little canola oil in a pan or use a small appe pan (Kuzhi Paniyaram pan). Drop spoonfuls of the lentil batter into the heated cavities or pan, ensuring there is some space between each fritter.
  • Fry until golden brown on both sides, flipping carefully when the bottom is browned.
  • Remove the fritters and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Make the Sour Curry

  • Heat mustard oil in a pan or pot over medium heat.
  • Add panch phoron, bay leaf, and whole dried red chili. Sauté until the spices splutter.
  • Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  • Stir in the soaked kokum pieces (and the soaking liquid) and chopped tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  • Add red chili powder and salt; mix well.
  • Simmer for 1 minute; add sugar and 1 cup water. Let it simmer for another minute.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and 2 tablespoons of water to make a smooth slurry.
  • Slowly pour the flour slurry into the simmering curry, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Gently add the fried red lentil fritters to the curry. Simmer for 2 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Serve hot with rice or roti.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Bilahi Boror Tenga

  • For extra flavor, add a small piece of ginger and/or garlic while sautéing the onions.
  • Adjust the amount of red chili powder to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • If you don't have Kokum, you can substitute with tamarind pulp (adjust the amount to taste) or a squeeze of lime juice for a similar sourness.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the fritters; this ensures they crisp up evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
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4 from 4 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 110kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 784mgPotassium: 321mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 556IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 24mgIron: 2mg

Aarti Sharma
Aarti Sharma
Articles: 81
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4 from 4 votes

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