Kangshoi is a traditional Manipuri stew that is nutritious and often includes a variety of seasonal vegetables. It is typically flavored with fermented fish or shrimp, and sometimes smoked or dried fish. Here’s a basic recipe for Kangshoi:
Ingredients:
- Assorted Vegetables:
- Use a mix of seasonal vegetables like potatoes, carrots, radishes, pumpkin, beans, spinach, mustard greens, etc. Chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Protein:
- 200 grams of chicken, cut into small pieces (optional)
- Or use dried fish, smoked fish, or fermented fish for a traditional flavor.
- Herbs and Aromatics:
- 2-3 green chilies, chopped
- 1-2-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Manipuri or any other local herbs if available
- Fermented Ingredients:
- Fermented fish or shrimp paste (Ngari) – 2 tablespoons (adjust according to taste)
- Oil:
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil (traditionally used, but you can use any cooking oil)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Keep them aside.
- Prepare the Meat (Optional):
- If using meat, clean and cut it into small pieces.
- Saute Aromatics:
- Heat the mustard oil in a pot or pan.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add chopped green chilies, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté until the raw smell disappears.
- Add Spices:
- Add turmeric powder and salt. Mix well.
- Add Protein (Meat or Dried Fish):
- If using meat, add the meat pieces to the pot and brown them.
- If using dried fish or smoked fish, add them to the pot.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the chopped vegetables to the pot and stir to coat them with the spices and aromatics.
- Pour Water:
- Pour enough water to cover the vegetables and meat. The quantity of water depends on your desired consistency.
- Fermented Fish/Shrimp Paste:
- Add the fermented fish or shrimp paste (Ngari) to the pot. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.
- Cooking:
- Bring the stew to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Let it cook until the vegetables and meat are tender. Stir occasionally.
- Check and Adjust:
- Taste and adjust salt and spice levels as needed.
- Finish:
- Once everything is cooked, turn off the heat.
- Optionally, you can add Manipuri herbs for additional flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve Kangshoi hot with rice or your preferred side dish.
Kangshoi is a versatile dish, and the choice of vegetables and protein can vary based on what’s available. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and enjoy this wholesome Manipuri stew!
