Imagine you’re wandering through the verdant hills of Manipur, and you stumble upon a dish that’s a warm hug in the form of food. That’s Eromba for you. Itโs a delectably simple, yet profoundly flavorful dish that combines boiled vegetables with the pungent heat of smoked or dried fish, all mashed together to create a comforting blend of tastes that speak of home, hearth, and the hills.
Eromba Recipe
Equipment
- Pot for boiling vegetables
- Mortar and pestle or a food masher
- Bowl for mixing
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 3-4 pieces Fermented fish (Ngari)
- 2 medium-sized Potatoes peeled
- 1 large Eggplant
- 100 g Green beans
- 1 bunch Green leafy vegetable (spinach or mustard leaves)
- 4-5 Green chilies or to taste
- to taste Salt
- Water for boiling
Instructions
- Boil the Vegetables: Place the potatoes, eggplant, and green beans in a pot of water. Season with salt and boil until they are completely tender. In another pot, blanch the green leafy vegetables until wilted. Drain the water and set the vegetables aside to cool slightly.
- Grill the Fish: If you're using fresh fermented fish, grill it until it is slightly crispy. If you're using dried fish, you can slightly roast it in a pan to intensify its flavors.
- Mash the Ingredients: In a large bowl, traditionally you would use a mortar and pestle to mash the vegetables and the fish together. The aim is not to puree them, but to bring them to a coarse mash, so they meld and mix while retaining some texture.
- Add the Chilies: Now, it's time for the fire. Mash the green chilies in with the vegetables and fish mixture. The chilies are not just about heat; they add a fresh, sharp dimension to the Eromba.
- Mix and Serve: Combine everything thoroughly. Check the seasoning and adjust to your taste. Eromba is usually enjoyed with rice and often accompanied by other side dishes.
Tips and Information

- If you cannot find fermented fish, try using fish sauce or shrimp paste as a substitute for that umami flavor.
- Use a food processor if you prefer not to mash by hand, but be careful not to over-process.
- Adjust the number of chilies based on how hot you like your food.
What can I use if I don’t have access to Ngari?
Substitute with any dried or smoked fish or even a bit of anchovy paste.
Can I add other vegetables to Eromba?
Absolutely! Traditional Eromba often includes a variety of seasonal vegetables.
How should I serve Eromba?
Serve it as a side dish with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Can Eromba be stored?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate it for a day or two.
Is there a vegetarian version of Eromba?
Yes, just skip the fish and use roasted or fried chickpeas for added flavor and texture.