Apong
A traditional fermented rice beverage made by tribal communities in Arunachal Pradesh, mildly alcoholic and served during festivals.
Apong
ByKavitha
Quick Info
- Prep: 10 mins prep (plus 5-7 days fermentation)
- Cook: 10 mins
- Servings: 6
Ingredient Substitutes
- Rice ? Barley
- Starter ? Commercial yeast
Ingredients
- 2 cups rice (preferably sticky rice)
- 1 starter culture (rice cake or yeast)
- 4-5 cups water
- Optional: sugar or jaggery 1-2 tbsp
- Clean utensils for fermentation
Instructions
- Wash rice thoroughly and soak for 4-6 hours.
- Steam or boil rice until cooked.
- Cool the rice to room temperature.
- Crumble starter culture and mix evenly with cooled rice.
- Place in a clean, airtight container, add water to desired consistency.
- Cover and let ferment 5-7 days at room temperature.
- Taste after 5 days; adjust sweetness if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature in bamboo cups or clay pots.
Tips & Variations
Use clean utensils to avoid contamination | Ferment in a cool, shaded place | Starter culture is essential for authentic flavor | Do not disturb during fermentation | Taste after 5 days and extend if needed
You will love it
Apong is a popular indigenous rice beer of Arunachal Pradesh, prepared by fermenting boiled rice with a starter culture (like rice cake or yeast) and water. It is mildly alcoholic, slightly sweet, and tangy, consumed during tribal festivals, marriages, and social gatherings. Traditionally, it is served in bamboo cups or clay pots, symbolizing hospitality and community bonding.
Serving: Serve during tribal festivals, social gatherings, and ceremonies; often paired with traditional snacks.
Storage: Store in cool dark place, 1 week
Tools Required
FAQ
Is apong alcoholic?
Yes, mildly alcoholic due to natural fermentation.
Can I use normal yeast instead of starter?
Yes, but flavor differs; starter gives authentic taste.
How long does fermentation take?
Usually 5-7 days at room temperature.
Can I add flavorings?
Yes, sugar or jaggery can adjust sweetness.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
š From Our Kitchen
Apong is a traditional rice beer prepared in Assamese households during festivals and community gatherings. The fermentation process is usually done at home using methods passed down through generations.
ā Kavitha, Cheffo Kitchen
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Kavitha
Founder & Publisher ā¢ Culinary Editor
Hi, Iām Kavitha ā the founder of Cheffo. Cooking has always been close to my heart, especially traditional recipes passed down through families. Through Cheffo, I share authentic regional dishes with clear instructions and practical tips so you can recreate those comforting flavors at home.