Manipur Singju Shredded Raw Vegetable Ngari Fresh Salad

Method

1. 1

   For banana flower petals: remove outer layers, slice the inner pale petals paper-thin and soak briefly in lemon water to prevent browning.

2. 2

   For lotus stem: peel and slice into thin rounds, soak in cold water.

3. 3

   Prepare all vegetables: shred or cut into very fine matchsticks.

4. 4

   Roast ngari pieces in a dry pan 2 minutes. Cool and grind coarsely in a mortar.

5. 5

   Dry-roast sesame seeds 2 to 3 minutes until golden and popping.

6. 6

   In a bowl combine all the prepared raw vegetables.

7. 7

   Add the ground ngari powder and roasted sesame seeds.

8. 8

   Add finely sliced green chillies.

9. 9

   Add mustard oil and lemon juice. Toss well.

10. 10

    Taste before adding salt — ngari provides significant saltiness.

11. 11

    Add fresh coriander. Toss once more. Serve immediately — singju loses its crunch and freshness within 30 minutes.