Christmas is barely a week away, and we know you can’t keep calm anymore. With the nip in the air being felt, the Christmas carols being heard in most corners across the world and the Christmas trees ready to be adorned with jingling lights and hanging socks. Christmas is already knocking at our doors. Although Christmas is imprinted to be the festival celebrated only outside India, the festival is celebrated with much fervour and excitement across India. On today’s trip to the culinary world, we are visiting the Northeast to explore the Christmas classics of the region.
Kaukswe
Typically a Burmese dish, Kaukswe is made with yellow curry served with rice noodles and various toppings. The dish is popularly savoured at Christmas and comforting meat dishes on the side.
Wungwut Ngam
A Northeastern version of fried chicken, Wungwut Ngam is a decadent dish that is drool-worthy. An indulgent amalgam of chicken and rice, the chicken dish is served in the lavish Christmas feast as an appetizer. The chicken pieces are marinated in rice powder and a few spices and deep-fried to perfection.
Chak-Hao Kheer
A Manipuri sweet dish, Chak-Hao Kheer, is made with black rice, cardamom, milk, nuts and raisins. The black rice gives the kheer a unique colour, nutty flavour and interesting texture. The kheer is served as a dessert in the Christmas feast and is savoured fondly.
Zutho
Made by the Angami Naga tribe, Zutho is a popular rice beer served Christmas. The drink is made by fermenting rice to amp up the entire course.
Nga-Thongba
Fish occupies an essential place in Manipuri cuisine. Popularly savoured as a main dish, Nga-Thongba is a fish dish flavoured with green chillies and mustard oil. The dish is a shredded fish stew served as a main course.