Food In Ukhrul

Food History of Ukhrul, Manipur, India

The food of Ukhrul is deeply embedded in the culture and traditions of the Tangkhul Naga community that predominately inhabits the region. The Tangkhuls have a rich agrarian culture which heavily influences their cuisine. Rice is the staple food, and it is often accompanied by organically grown vegetables and meat. The use of aromatic herbs and local ingredients like bamboo shoots, wild fruits, and vegetables in their dishes characterize the unique flavors of Ukhrul's cuisine.

The traditional method of cooking often involves smoking, drying, and fermenting, which not only preserves the food but also enhances its taste. Over the years, Ukhrul's food has evolved with influences from neighboring states, however, it still retains its distinct cultural identity.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Ukhrul, Manipur

1. Iromba (Vegetarian): A traditional Manipuri dish made with boiled vegetables, mashed and mixed with chillies, fermented fish, and seasoned with fresh herbs.
2. Bamboo Shoot Curry (Vegetarian): A popular curry in Ukhrul made with tender bamboo shoots, local spices, and often garnished with a sprinkling of coriander leaves.
3. Aloo Kangmet (Vegetarian): A simple mashed potato dish flavored with mustard oil, chilies, and salt.
4. Chamthong or Kangshoi (Non-Vegetarian): A flavorsome broth made with seasonal vegetables, fish or other meats, and a generous amount of greens.
5. Yongchak Singju (Vegetarian): A type of salad made from the Yongchak (tree bean), mixed with vegetables and seasoned with aromatic herbs.
6. Nga Atoiba Thongba (Non-Vegetarian): A fish curry delicacy made without frying, ensuring the original taste of the fish is retained and heightened with local spices.
7. Chak-hao Kheer (Vegetarian): A sweet pudding made from black rice, which is indigenous to the Northeast region, milk, and sugar or jaggery.
8. Zutho (Beverage): A traditional mildly fermented rice beer enjoyed by many in Ukhrul. It is somewhat akin to sake.
9. Morok Metpa (Vegetarian): A hot and spicy chutney made from the king chilli (U-morok) ground with dried fish and roasted tomato.
10. Manipur Bora (Vegetarian): A variety of fritters made using different ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and herbs, similar to pakoras.

Top Famous Restaurants in Ukhrul, Manipur

• Hamleikhong Restaurant
  Address: Viewland, Ukhrul, Manipur 795142
  Famous Food: Ooti (Vegetarian - Manipuri style legume curry)
• Phungreitang Eatery
  Address: Phungreitang, Ukhrul, Manipur 795142
  Famous Food: Bamboo Shoot Fry (Vegetarian)
• Ukhrul Cafe
  Address: Near Town Hall, Ukhrul, Manipur 795142
  Famous Food: Nga Atoiba Thongba (Non-Vegetarian - Fish curry)
• Kachai Lemon Restaurant
  Address: Kachai, Ukhrul, Manipur
  Famous Food: Lemon Pie (Vegetarian)
• Zimik’s Kitchen
  Address: Wino Bazaar, Ukhrul 795142
  Famous Food: Smoked Pork with Akhuni (Non-Vegetarian)

Note that Ukhrul's predominantly meat-based cuisine reflects the dietary practices of the local community, but vegetarian options rooted in traditional and local ingredients are also available and gaining popularity.