Forget About Instant Noodles! Assam Has Traditional Magic Rice, Kumol Saul, That Takes Minutes To Prepare; No Cooking Required!

Assam’s verdant paddy fields are home to a special culinary treasure known as Kumol Saul, also referred to as Boka Saul or “magic rice.” This traditional rice type offers a ready-to-eat experience that has supported communities for centuries. With a fascinating blend of history, nutrition, and convenience, Kumol Saul is a symbol of Assam’s resilience and culinary ingenuity.

The Secret Behind Kumol Saul’s Magic

Kumol Saul is traditionally a pre-cooked, sun-dried rice variety that makes it an incredibly convenient and versatile food. Made from the Bora Dhaan variety, a glutinous and sticky rice grown predominantly in Majuli, this rice undergoes a fascinating production process. It is harvested in December, soaked overnight, boiled, and sun-dried in a day. With this method, Kumol Saul turns into a dish that does not require a stove or heat to prepare.

Unlike regular rice, Kumol Saul is soft and easily digestible. To prepare it, all one needs to do is soak the rice in warm water for 10–15 minutes or in cold water for about 30 minutes. The grains swell, become soft, and are ready to be enjoyed—no cooking required! This makes it not only a time-saver but also an energy-efficient food.

Kumol Saul is also significant historically, especially when considering the ancient Ahom dynasty in Assam. It is said that during the 17th century, the Ahom army relied on Kumol Saul during their military campaigns. The rice was preferred because it was easy to transport and required no cooking—soldiers could quickly soak it in water and consume it on the move. 

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A Staple Of Assamese Cuisine

Kumol Saul’s mild, delicate flavour makes it incredibly versatile in both savoury and sweet recipes. It is frequently eaten with savoury foods as a breakfast staple. This can also be eaten as a dessert, combined with jaggery and cream for a delightful treat. In a traditional preparation called Jolpaan, Kumol Saul is combined with curd or cream, jaggery, and banana powder to create a festive dish.

This rice is prized for its rich nutritional profile in addition to its versatility. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, crude fibre, and protein. Kumol Saul has recently received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, a recognition that further elevates its significance.

This type of rice has even gained popularity among soldiers who are stationed in cold, high-altitude frontier areas. It is a great option for people living in remote locations or disaster-affected areas because of its simple preparation and energy-boosting qualities. Whether it’s used as a quick snack or a nutritious addition to any meal, Kumol Saul continues to be cherished. 

So, the next time you find yourself in need of a quick meal that requires no cooking, try Assam’s magic rice.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva