Nestled in the verdant hills of Northeast India, Meghalaya is a treasure trove of culinary delights. The state’s cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and local ingredients, shaped by the diverse tribal communities that call this region home. Join me on this gastronomic adventure as we explore some of the most popular and traditional dishes of Meghalaya.
1. Jadoh
- Description: Jadoh is the quintessential Meghalayan dish, a fragrant rice preparation cooked with generous amounts of pork. The rice takes on a vibrant reddish hue from the meat juices and spices, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
- Popular Restaurant: You’ll find tasty versions of Jadoh all across Meghalaya, but a place that frequently gets recommended is *Dei Dohin Shillong.
- Key Ingredients: Short-grain rice, pork (with fat), turmeric, ginger, garlic, onions, black pepper, bay leaves.
2. Doh Neiiong
- Description: Doh Neiiong is a rich and flavorful pork curry, where the meat is cooked in a thick, aromatic sauce enhanced with black sesame and local spices. The dish has a smoky depth and a slightly nutty flavor profile.
- Popular Restaurant: Trattoriain Shillong is highly regarded for its authentic preparations and features Doh Neiiong on its menu.
- Key Ingredients: Pork (fatty cuts are preferred), black sesame, onions, ginger, garlic, indigenous spices, green chilies.
3. Doh Khleh
- Description: A refreshing and tangy salad, Doh Khleh is a palate cleanser and adds a contrasting texture to Meghalayan meals. The primary ingredients are minced pork, onions, brain, and a zesty mix of spices and herbs.
- Popular Restaurant: City Hut Dhabain Police Bazar, Shillong, is known for its generous portions and traditional dishes like Doh Khleh.
- Key Ingredients: Minced pork, pig’s brain, onions, green chilies, cilantro, local spices.
4. Doh Syiar
- Description: This flavorful dish highlights the humble chicken as its star ingredient. Doh Syiar is a chicken curry with a delicate balance of spices. The tender chicken pieces are simmered in a rich sauce bursting with the flavors of onions, ginger, garlic, and a touch of local spices.
- Popular Restaurant: Jiva Grillin Shillong serves up a tasty Doh Syiar with a side of Jadoh – a delicious way to try two popular dishes.
- Key Ingredients: Chicken (bone-in for best flavor), onions, ginger, garlic, tomatoes, turmeric, local spices.
5. Doh Khlieh
- Description: Another salad-like preparation, Doh Khlieh offers a vibrant mix of textures and flavors. It features boiled pork (often including the head), onions, chilies, and a generous dose of fresh cilantro, all tossed together in a light and zesty dressing.
- Popular Restaurant: The Loungein Shillong often features Doh Khlieh and other popular Khasi dishes on their menu.
- Key Ingredients: Boiled pork (including head/ear pieces), onions, green chilies, cilantro, salt, pepper, oil.
6. Doh Snam
- Description: For the adventurous eater, Doh Snam presents a unique experience. This dish is a type of blood sausage, where minced pork meat and spices are stuffed into pork intestines providing a distinct flavor profile.
- Popular Restaurant: Small local eateries are often the best places to find authentic versions of Doh Snam. Look for humble establishments in Shillong’s markets.
- Key Ingredients: Minced pork, blood, onions, ginger, garlic, local spices and herbs.
7. Doh Jem
- Description: Doh Jem is an intriguing recipe featuring the different organ meats of the pig. The liver, kidneys, heart, and other parts are cooked in a subtly spiced gravy, resulting in a dish with a rich and almost earthy flavor profile.
- Popular Restaurant: Lameein Shillong specializes in traditional Khasi cuisine, making it a great option for trying Doh Jem.
- Key Ingredients: Pig’s liver, heart, kidneys, intestines, onions, ginger, garlic, local spices.
8. Tungrymbai
- Description: Tungrymbai is a fermented soybean dish with a pungent and unique flavor. It’s a staple in Meghalayan cuisine and often an acquired taste. The soybeans are fermented, mashed, and then stir-fried with pork, local spices, and aromatic vegetables.
- Popular Restaurant: Bamboo Hutin Shillong is known for its traditional preparations and serves up a tasty Tungrymbai.
- Key Ingredients: Fermented soybeans, pork (often with fatty cuts), onions, ginger, garlic, chilies, local black sesame.
Wrapping Up Our Culinary Adventure
This is just a small glimpse into the exciting culinary landscape of Meghalaya. With its diverse communities and abundance of fresh, local ingredients, Meghalaya offers a feast for the senses. I encourage you to step off the beaten track and explore the small eateries and local markets for the most authentic and memorable experiences.
Let me know if you’d like more in-depth explorations of specific dishes or recommendations for restaurants!
