Komal Saul or Soft Rice - An easy Assamese culinary delight

                                        Komal Saul prior to soaking. Komal Saul takes me to my grandparents' home, where I recall the early childhood days when we stayed in a different city and visited my grandparents' ancestral home. My grandmother often delights in preparing a morning breakfast in a jiffy. The breakfast is called Komal saul or soft rice. A luscious, slightly golden color and light glossy textured rice, no need for the cooking process, unlike other regular rice. In Assamese, 'Komal' means soft, and that softness does not require cooking. Soak it in hot water for a few minutes, and it's ready to eat.
         My home state, Assam, produces a variety of rice, and it's no wonder we have all kinds of cereals, snacks, and main courses made from rice. Any other type of rice is considered the main course, whereas Komal Saul is considered a light meal or snack. As a snack or mini-meal, Komal Saul holds a prestigious position in Assamese culinary tradition. A religious function, a funeral, or even a wedding sighting of Komal Saul is not uncommon, especially in those bygone years.

What exactly is Komal Saul
 Komal Saul is prepared from Bora Saul, or sticky rice, an indigenous rice variety in Assam. The Bora Saul, or sticky rice, undergoes a process similar to parboiled rice and becomes Komal Saul. The parboiled process reduces the content of amylose (starch) and makes it softer.

                                         Komal Saul and Regular Rice
How to eat it  

Traditionally, Komal Saul is served with whipped Yogurt and Jaggery. Additionally, it can be enjoyed with milk instead of yogurt, and a hint of ghee takes it to another level.
If you prefer a savory flavor, you can enjoy it with a hint of salt, a touch of mustard oil, and chopped ginger.
In today's modern Assamese society, Komal Saul is not often the 1st choice for a wedding, but in today's fast-paced life, we want everything instant and easy. What you have in Komal Saul is something instant, easy, and also great health benefits, as the lower level of starch means fewer calories and is easy on your digestive system. Incorporate Komal Saul into your daily breakfast, if not every day, at least occasionally. The luscious and fragrant rice not only feeds your mind but also your heart.