A quick search on the internet will tell you about the popularity of Eromba - a divinely delicious ethnic dish from Manipur. Known for its earthy flavour, the delicacy has its roots in the state’s Meitei, Pangal and Meitei Christian community. The term ‘Eromba’ comes from ‘eeru taana lonba’ which roughly translates to ‘mixing and stirring watery’. A staple diet in almost every Manipuri home, Eromba is basically boiled vegetables, mashed together with fermented fish (ngari/shidol) and chillies - an important ingredient of Manipuri cuisine. The ‘world’s hottest’ Naga King Chilli is often preferred for this dish.
Traditionally, seasonal vegetables that are easily available in the northeastern part of India - such as the flower and stem of banana, ladies finger, colocasia and bamboo shoot - are used to make this stew-like meal accompaniment. Apart from these, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coriander leaves and maroi napakpi (a perennial herb) are needed for the preparation. Easily one of the must-try recipes from the Northeast, Eromba forms an integral part of the illustrious Manipuri thali.
1. Luxmi Kitchen
Known to serve a variety of traditional dishes at an affordable price, Luxmi Kitchen offers you a taste of the authentic Meitiei platter, with a host of fish dishes. Top choices on the restaurant’s menu include Nga Atoiba Thongba, Nga Matum Thongba, Ngarengkha Angouba, while there is also Otti Thongba, Pakora Thongba and Sana Thongba, among others.
Location: Wahengbam Leikai, Sagolband, Imphal, Manipur - 795001
Timings: 9.30 am to 3 pm
Price for two: ₹600 (approx)
2. Naoba’s Chakhumang
If you are looking for conventional food with a contemporary twist, Naoba’s Chakhumang your place to be. It is said that the menu here has a prominent influence of Chinese and Burmese delicacies. Be it Ngari, Chicken Paknam, Chamfut, Singju or Beson Dumpling with Chakhao Cream, there are a variety of items to sample at this humble eatery.
Location: Rims Road, Rims Road, Thangmeiband, Imphal, Lamphel, Manipur - 795004
Timings: 9 am to 7.30 pm
Price for two: ₹500 (approx)
3. Forage
Known for its soul-soothing ambience and traditional comfort food, Forage is a popular café in Imphal. Their local food offerings include Stir Fried Singju, Slow Cooked Pork With Sirarakhong Chilli, Smoked Pork With Soibum, Chicken With Oo-morok and Chilli Ametpa among others. It’s also home to Forager’s that specialises in kombucha, hot sauces and sourdough.
Location: 2nd Floor, KokSamLai Tower, DM College Road, Thangmeiband, Imphal West, Manipur - 795004
Timings: 11.30 am to 8 pm
Price for two: ₹300 (approx)
4. Shosa Kitchen
Another traditional food joint in the city, Shosa Kitchen is preferred for its delicious homely meals. The food served here has a Naga influence, with specials on the menu including smoked pork and chicken dishes. There is also fried rice and noodles and a few bakery items.
Location: Opposite Chingmeirong Police Outpost, Chingmeirong, Imphal, Manipur - 795010
Timings: 10.30 am to 5.30 pm
Price for two: ₹1,200 (approx)
5. Chakluk
A place for authentic fare, Chakluk’s specialties include Manipuri platters, Singju and Sareng Thongpa. They also serve Oak Hang-Gaam, Oak Soibum Chamthong, Chicken Thongba among others.
Location: RW4P+M49, Paona Bazar, Imphal, Manipur - 795001
Timings: 10 am to 9 pm
Price for two: ₹500 (approx)