When the word rice comes to mind, people often think of a long cooking process: first, the rice needs to be soaked, then the water needs to be brought to a boil, the rice added, and waited until the dish is ready. However, there is a rice that does not require turning on gas, using a rice cooker, or consuming electricity. This sounds like magic, but such a special variety of rice is found in Assam and can be eaten in a traditional way without heat treatment.
To prepare this rice, it is enough to simply soak it in water for some time. After the rice absorbs the moisture, the grains become soft and can be eaten directly. This unique characteristic distinguishes it from ordinary rice, which is why it is known as 'Magic Rice'. It is important to note that this is not a new discovery, but an ancient and traditional variety of rice that has been consumed in Assam for a long time.
This special variety from Assam is known as Komal Saul or Chokuwa rice. Its main feature is the method of preparation: it is enough to simply 'soak and eat,' meaning there is no need to boil it like regular rice. After soaking, the grains become soft and edible, which is why it is called 'Magic Rice'.
Another significant feature of this rice is that boiling water is not required for its preparation. It is soaked in cold or slightly warm water. Some varieties become soft if kept in cold water for about 40–45 minutes, while in warm water, this time can be even shorter. After this, the rice is drained and eaten without further processing. Thus, neither a stove nor the hassle of cooking in a pot, nor long waiting was required.
The question arises: how can rice become soft without heat treatment? This happens due to a special type of starch contained in this rice. Chokuwa rice has a low amylose content, so its grains soften quickly upon contact with water. This property sets it apart from other common rice varieties.
It is not a new variety. The tradition of consuming it in Assam is very ancient. Here, it is eaten in various ways: with yogurt, milk, palm sugar, sugar, bananas, pickled vegetables, or salt and oil. In some places, it is also used to make breakfast. This rice has been part of the culinary traditions of Assam for decades.
It can also be useful for travelers. Imagine a place where there is no access to gas or electricity, but one needs to eat rice. In such conditions, this rice can be very useful. Due to its simple preparation, it is considered convenient food for travelers, mountaineers, and people who lack means to cook.
Soldiers also use this rice. After soaking, the rice becomes soft and fluffy. Its taste differs from that of ordinary rice—it is slightly sweeter. This is why it is traditionally eaten with palm sugar, milk, or yogurt.
Next time you think that preparing rice requires a lot of time and effort, be sure to learn about the traditional 'Magic Rice' from Assam. This age-old local technique remains just as interesting today, as here the rice does not need to be boiled, but correctly soaked.
