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Manipuri cuisine is an integral part of the food culture in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur. The cuisine of Manipur is a perfect reflection of the diverse culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the people of the state. The unique blend of local ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavours makes Manipuri cuisine a delight for any food enthusiast.
The cuisine of Manipur is characterized by the use of simple yet healthy ingredients such as vegetables, fish, meat, and herbs. One popular dish in Manipuri cuisine is Iromba, or Eromba which is a selection of dishes made with boiled vegetables and mashed with roasted or smoked fish. Although Yongchak Eromba holds the pride of place when Manipuri eromba or fermented dried fish dishes, Belendri or Lady's finger eromba is one that should also be on your list of dishes to try.
Usually served as a side dish along with rice and a main course, Belendri Eromba is an acquired taste with quintessentially Manipuri flavours. Delicious and extremely healthy, this dish uses no added oils or fats drawing all of its flavours from the vegetables, chilli and dried fish called Ngari. Although it has a slightly slimy texture that many might be a little surprised by, the clean and simple flavours will make you an instant fan.
Ingredients
- 250 gms ladies fingers
- 2 potatoes
- 2-3 fermented dry fish
- 1 bhut jholokia chilli
- Salt
Method
- Pound the chilli together into a rough paste.
- Roast the dried fish over an open flame until charred and then add them to the chilli mixture and pound together.
- In a deep pan boil the peeled and chopped potatoes for 20 minutes.
- Wash the ladies fingers and trim the ends off.
- Add them whole to the pot with the potatoes.
- Cook for 10 minutes and then remove the potatoes and ladies fingers from the pot.
- In a bowl mash all the ingredients together with the chilli paste, add salt as required.
- Belendri Eromba is ready to serve!
