10 Most disgustingly healthy yet delicious food from Manipur

Manipur is one of the seven sisters forming the northeastern states of India. It is surrounded by Nagaland from the north, Mizoram from the south and Assam from the west. Manipur has a population of 2,855,794 as per 2011 census. Of this total, 57.2% live in the valley districts and the remaining 42.8% in the hill districts. Manipur state is famously known for its flora and fauna. It is also famous for its rich varieties of organic food. The staple diet of the people of Manipur is Rice. If you are a travel and food enthusiast, this Indian state should definitely be on your next bucket list. Fish, pork, and beef are one of the most popularly served non-vegetarian items in Manipur.

Manipur climate and the agriculture

Manipur enjoys the 5 seasons in a year, winter, autumn, spring, summer and, monsoon. Manipur’s climate and the soil conditions make it ideally suited for horticultural crops. The state is covered with over 3,000 square kilometers of bamboo forests, making it one of India’s largest contributor for the bamboo industry. Some of the cash crops in Manipur include Orange, Lemon, Lemongrass, Pineapple, Papaya, Passion Fruit, Pear, and Plum.

Fresh organic vegetable and fruits are found in abundance. Fermented food, worms, bugs, salads, and boiled food are also popularly eaten here and often twice a day.

If you want to know more about all the exotic and traditional food found in Manipur. You’ve landed on the right place buddy!!

Here we have 10 of the most disgustingly healthy food items of Manipur.

1. Eromba

It is one of the most popular and favorite cuisine in Manipur. The cuisine’s main component is the fermented fish called Ngari which is what gives the tanginess to the dish. Preparation of the dish includes boiled onion, tomato, potato, bamboo shoot, banana shoot with other types of edible plant roots and herbs. It is then garnished with herbs like coriander. The half boiled herbs and root gives the Eromba high nutritional value and is also considered a healthy snack for the people of Manipur.

2. Bitter/ Stinky beans

This bean grows during the winter season. The green skin of the long bean is peeled off with sharp edge objects like a knife or metal scraper. These bitter beans are mostly prepared as a chutney or as a side dish. It complements well with fermented fish, pig fat and king chilly. Stinky bean contains iron, which is good for our skin.

3. Fermented & Dry Bamboo shoot

The most consumed food item in Northeast India is the famous bamboo shoot. The fermented bamboo shoot has a very distinct and strong smell which is often a delight for the exotic food enthusiast. It is usually cooked with pork and it is also included as one of the main ingredients in the preparation of Eromba. Besides the strong smell and sour taste the bamboo shoot helps with digestion and is considered a very healthy snack when boiled with leafy vegetables.

4. Fermented pig fat

It is one of the smelly food items from the Northeast India. Fermented pig fat is most popular in Mizoram and Manipur. The pig fat is usually taken from its back fat which is cultured for months which become solid white. It is added to chutney for flavor and in curries to make it creamy. It is one of the must-have food items of Manipur.

5. Fermented soybeans

Also known as aakhone is a popular household item which is a popular side dish. It has an extremely pungent smell which is why it is usually stored in an airtight container. It contains high digested plant protein with low-fat cholesterol content with high nutritive value as well as antioxidants. Which is a healthy diet supplement and a must have for those wanting a taste of vegetable-based fermented food items.

6. Fermented fish

Ngari is one of the commonly used everyday ingredients in a Manipuri household. It is a non-salted fermented fish product which can also be prepared at home or bought at the market locally or online these days. It is a great source of protein, amino acids, and minerals with probiotic properties and antioxidants which are great for purifying the blood. Ngari is added in chutneys and Eromba. And taste best when properly fried before mixing with other ingredients.

7. Pig & Cow feet

This food item is popular among North East Indian households. It is fried/ roasted or made into a stew. The food item when prepared in a stew is added with vegetable broth and king chili for flavor. It is also prepared on special occasions or family gets together as it is a special kind of food because of its preparation style. And it is a great source of protein. Cow feet is usually prepared with fermented pig fat and king chili in Mizoram and in some part of the district in Manipur.

8. King chili

The King Chili or Ghost Chili is a must have for those who want to experience exploding flavors which burn their mouths. It is not for the light-hearted as these chilies are pungent smell and fiery hot. It is advised to King Chilli eaters to thoroughly wash their hands after eating it so that the burning sensation doesn’t transfer to other sensitive areas of their body. These chilies are a must have for those looking for adventure in terms of flavor.

9. Worm

Among non-vegetarian food items, worms are also another delicacy eaten by the North Eastern Indians. These worms are also great energy providers and are nature’s energy protein bars. They can be either fried or made into a stew. This worm dish has essential fatty acids which are particularly important for the healthy development of children and babies. So, why not try this food item with the younger members of the family. Some of the popular edible worms are – Bamboo worm, Silkworm, Palm worm and, Grubs (wood-eating larvae).

10. Pig Intestine

Pig Intestine is another popular food item which is prepared by properly cleaning the small intestine. And they are either fried, barbecue or made into a broth. It is often flavor with herbs and other spices which is a delicacy in North East India. When prepared pig intestine sausage, the pig’s blood, liver, fats and, spices are stuffed inside. This food item should be on the bucket list for those who want to experiment with their food palette.

Just reading about the foods of Manipur will not be enough! The cuisines of this state deserve to be tasted. Being super healthy in its nutritional value one does not have to worry too much about binge eating. So remember to visit and experience the beautiful culture, flora, and fauna of Manipur while indulging yourself in their delicacies.