Food In Meghalaya

Meghalaya Food History

The cuisine of Meghalaya, a state in Northeast India, is rich and varied, influenced by the tribal cultures that thrive there. Primarily rooted in the food habits of the three major tribes – the Khasis, the Garos, and the Jaintias – Meghalayan cuisine focuses on flavors obtained from boiling, roasting, or fermenting. Rice is a staple in their diet, accompanied by different meat dishes, with pork being a favorite. However, with the changing times and global influence, even vegetarian dishes have found a place in their cuisine. Spices are used subtly, and the freshness of the ingredients stands out in every dish.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Meghalaya for Tourists

1. Jadoh (Non-Veg): A popular Khasi rice dish flavored with turmeric and cooked with pork meat.
2. Dohneiiong (Non-Veg): A pork delicacy where the meat is cooked with black sesame seeds, giving it a unique flavor.
3. Nakham Bitchi (Non-Veg): A spicy and flavorful broth made with dry fish, which is a local favorite especially among the Garo tribe.
4. Dohkhlieh (Non-Veg): A salad-like snack made with minced pork, onions and chilies.
5. Tungrymbai (Veg): A fermented soybean paste mixed with other ingredients such as pork, fish, or vegetables but can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish.
6. Pukhlein (Veg): A sweet snack made from rice flour and jaggery, pan-fried to perfection.
7. Dohjem (Non-Veg): A dish prepared with pork and the flavorsome green vegetables of the region.
8. Aikibat (Veg): A dish of mashed potatoes mixed with mustard leaves, offering a distinct blend of flavors.
9. Pumaloi (Veg): A steamed rice dish which is an essential part of Khasi festivals and ceremonies.
10. Bamboo Shoots (Veg): Often used in curries, salads, and pickles, adding a crisp texture and distinct flavor to Meghalayan dishes.

Top Famous Restaurants in Meghalaya with Famous Food

1. Trattoria – Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya
   Famous for: Jadoh (Non-Veg)
2. Cafe Shillong – Laitumkhrah, Shillong, Meghalaya
   Famous for: Khasi Platter that includes a variety of non-veg items such as smoked meat and fish.
3. Madras Cafe – Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya
   Famous for: Dosas and other South Indian vegetarian dishes.
4. Bamboo Hut – Near Ward's Lake, Shillong, Meghalaya
   Famous for: Bamboo Shoot Fry (Veg) and other traditional Khasi dishes.
5. City Hut Family Dhaba – Dhankheti, Shillong, Meghalaya
   Famous for: A variety of cuisine options including Indian, Chinese, and Continental with both veg and non-veg dishes.
6. Orange Roots – Tura, West Garo Hills, Meghalaya
   Famous for: Vegetarian Thalis reflecting the local cuisine.
7. Ri Kynjai Resort – UCC Road, Ri Bhoi District, Meghalaya
   Famous for: Sohphieh (Non-Veg), a local fish dish, and other delicacies like smoked pork with bamboo shoots.