Haah Kumura is a classic dish from Assam, featuring succulent duck meat cooked with ash gourd (kumura) and a blend of aromatic spices. Known for its rich and comforting flavors, this traditional curry is especially popular during festivals, family gatherings, and cold winter months.
If you want to experience authentic Assamese flavors, this step-by-step Haah Kumura recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Rich & Aromatic: Slow-cooked duck infused with whole spices and mustard oil.
- Nutritious: Duck meat is high in protein and ash gourd is packed with health benefits.
- Authentic Assamese Taste: A perfect balance of flavors, unique to Assamese cuisine.
Health Benefits of Haah Kumura
This Assamese delicacy is not just flavorful but also highly nutritious:
- Duck meat is rich in iron and protein, making it a great energy booster.
- Ash gourd aids digestion and helps in detoxifying the body.
- The use of mustard oil and traditional spices adds warmth and supports immunity.
Ingredients Required
Main Ingredients:
- 500g duck meat (haah), cut into pieces
- 300g ash gourd (kumura), diced
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 4-5 black peppercorns
- 2 dried red chilies
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (to balance flavors)
- 1 cup warm water (for gravy consistency)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Duck Meat
- Wash and pat dry the duck pieces.
- Marinate with turmeric powder and salt, and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Cooking the Duck
- Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan until it starts smoking.
- Add bay leaves, peppercorns, and dried red chilies, sauté for a few seconds.
- Add chopped onions and fry until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the marinated duck pieces, cook on medium heat until browned.
Step 3: Adding Spices & Cooking the Curry
- Add turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala, and black pepper powder.
- Mix well and cook for 5 minutes until the spices are well combined.
- Add the ash gourd pieces, stir to coat them in the spice mix.
- Pour in warm water, cover, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the duck is tender.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Taste and adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves for a burst of flavor.
- Let the curry rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Haah Kumura pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed rice for an authentic Assamese meal.
- Joha rice, a fragrant rice variety from Assam.
- A side of green salad or chutney for freshness.
Tips for the Best Haah Kumura
- Use fresh duck meat for better taste and texture.
- Cooking in mustard oil enhances the authentic flavor.
- Slow cooking is key to bringing out the depth of flavors.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
Variations of Haah Kumura
- Spicy Haah Kumura: Add extra green chilies and black pepper.
- Dry Haah Kumura: Reduce water to make a semi-dry version.
- Haah Kumura with Black Sesame: Some Assamese households add a hint of black sesame paste for a richer flavor.
Haah Kumura is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural experience that brings the warmth and traditions of Assam to your plate. Whether it’s a festive occasion or a simple weekend meal, this flavorful and hearty duck curry is sure to impress!
So, why wait? Try this authentic Haah Kumura recipe today and enjoy the rich taste of Assamese cuisine.
Have you tried making Haah Kumura before? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
Also Read: Poita Bhaat Recipe: A Traditional Assamese Superfood for a Healthy Start
