5 Dishes You Have to Try in Mizoram

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Distance from Guwahati:  273 kilometres

Being born and brought up in Delhi, I had never really gone beyond daal makhni, kadai paneer, chicken tandoori or masala bhindi. But, ironically enough, my taste buds have never really been comfortable with the masala that we North Indians put in our cuisine.  

During graduation I had made friends with a Mizo girl who often told me that I should visit Mizoram for its food. So, when I finally got the opportunity to go to the North East with a few friends, I decided to visit my friend’s hometown- Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram. And, boy, was I in for a surprise! The dishes were not only simply cooked but also had a great blend of fresh herbs—the best combination a health-conscious foodie like me could ever come across. The flavor, that irresistible smell and the traditional style of serving in the banana leaves, were all unique yet fascinating. 

Here’s me telling you the 5 Mizo dishes that you have to try when you visit:

Bai

This popular Mizo dish is made of steamed vegetables along with pork, spinach and bamboo shoot, and spiced with local herbs. Though it’s mostly prepared with pork sauce (made out of pork and mustard), it can be made with butter as well to make a vegetarian dish. Bai is one of the most easily available dishes in the capital of Mizoram- Aizawl. 

Vawksa Rep

Looking for soft, tender meat that falls off the bone? Your search will end at Vawksa Rep, Mizoram’s favorite smoked pork dish. Every North Eastern state has a different way of cooking pork, but this Mizo dish will blow you away with its earthy flavors of chilies, local herbs and fresh leafy greens that complement the pork.

Koat Pitha

Koat Pitha are deep fried fritters with rice flour and banana similar to the Unni appam in Kerala, but with the addition of fish.  It has a crispy outer and a soft inner layer. It’s the best dish to pair with Zu, the Mizo chai.  

Sanpiau

If you are a street food fan, then you cannot miss out on this Mizo snack. It’s cooked with rice porridge and is plated up with fresh coriander paste, spring onions, crushed black pepper, fish sauce and finely powdered rice.

Misa Mach Poora

Misa Mash Poora is the best way to treat yourself when in Mizoram. The dish cooked with shrimps, onions, coriander, peppercorns and lime juice, its bold flavors and will make every foodie’s mouth water.

Apart from being the state of beautiful mountains and lush greenery, Mizoram is indeed a place for people who are open to new and great tastes. So, if you are a foodie, then it’s definitely time for you to pack your bags for a trip to Mizoram, for a taste of healthy yet mouthwatering food.