Mesu, a traditional dish made from fermented bamboo shoots, is widely popular in regions of northeast India, particularly in the hills of Darjeeling and Sikkim. This tangy, sour ingredient is a versatile part of the local cuisine, used in a variety of dishes ranging from pickles to curries. In this blog post, we’ll explore a detailed recipe that utilizes mesu, along with a deep dive into its cultural significance and culinary uses. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to prepare your own dish featuring mesu and have a newfound appreciation for this flavorful ingredient.
What is Mesu?
Mesu refers to fermented bamboo shoots that are prepared in a process similar to making traditional pickles. Bamboo shoots, when fermented, develop a distinctive sharp, tangy taste that adds a unique depth of flavor to dishes. This fermented delicacy has been consumed for generations in regions like Sikkim, Nepal, and Darjeeling, where bamboo grows abundantly. Mesu is typically used as a condiment or as a base for spicy and tangy curries.
The fermentation process of mesu not only enhances its taste but also makes it easier to digest and increases its nutritional value. Bamboo shoots are rich in fiber and certain vitamins, making them a healthy addition to your diet when prepared correctly.
Recipe: Mesu-Based Bamboo Shoot Curry
This recipe showcases mesu as the star ingredient in a flavorful bamboo shoot curry. You can serve this dish with rice or flatbread to complement its bold flavors. The preparation time is around 45 minutes, with an additional 6 hours for fermentation if you are making fresh mesu.
Ingredients:
- 250g blanched or canned bamboo shoots
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil
- 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon dry roasted mustard seeds (ground)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Preparation of Mesu (Fermentation Process):
- If using fresh bamboo shoots, start by blanching them in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Drain and allow them to cool.
- Chop the bamboo shoots into thin slices.
- Place the bamboo shoots in a sterilized jar with a teaspoon of salt. Cover the jar with a piece of muslin cloth and secure the lid. Store in a cool, dark place for 6 hours or more to allow fermentation.
- The longer you ferment the bamboo shoots, the more intense the flavor will become. If you prefer a milder taste, limit the fermentation to just a few hours. Once fermented, the bamboo shoots are ready to use as mesu.
- Cooking the Curry:
- Heat mustard oil in a large pan until it begins to smoke slightly, then reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the fenugreek seeds and cumin seeds, allowing them to crackle in the oil for about 30 seconds.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Then, add the minced garlic, green chilies, and turmeric powder, stirring continuously to release the flavors.
- Mix in the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a sauce.
- Add the red chili powder, coriander powder, and ground roasted mustard seeds to the pan. Stir well to combine the spices.
- Now, add the mesu (fermented bamboo shoots) to the pan and mix everything thoroughly. Let the curry simmer for about 10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season the curry with salt to taste and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the mesu curry hot with steamed rice or traditional Indian flatbreads like roti or paratha. The tangy and spicy notes of the curry pair perfectly with the neutral base of the rice or bread.
Other Culinary Uses of Mesu
Aside from its role in curries, mesu can be used in several other dishes. Here are a few ideas to inspire your cooking:
- Mesu Pickle: You can create a simple mesu pickle by combining the fermented bamboo shoots with garlic, mustard oil, chili powder, and salt. This pickle can be stored for weeks and used as a condiment alongside meals (My Fermentation).
- Spicy Bamboo Shoot Stir-Fry: Mesu can be stir-fried with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and potatoes, along with a mix of spices. The sharpness of the mesu adds an exciting twist to an otherwise ordinary stir-fry.
- Bamboo Shoot Soup: Mesu can be added to soups for a tangy kick. Pair it with ingredients like mushrooms, ginger, and scallions for a hearty and nutritious soup.
- Noodles with Mesu: Mesu can be tossed into stir-fried noodles along with soy sauce, garlic, and vegetables. The fermented flavor elevates the dish, giving it an umami richness (PureWow).
Health Benefits of Mesu
Fermented bamboo shoots, like mesu, are an excellent source of fiber and probiotics. The fermentation process promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, which support gut health. Bamboo shoots are also low in calories and contain essential vitamins like vitamin B6, which is important for energy metabolism. Additionally, bamboo shoots are rich in antioxidants, which help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body (Vahrehvah).
Moreover, the inclusion of mustard oil in mesu dishes provides heart-healthy fats and adds a layer of pungent flavor that complements the fermented bamboo perfectly. Regular consumption of fermented foods like mesu can aid digestion and improve immune function by supporting the microbiome.
Conclusion
Mesu is a versatile and unique ingredient that can be the foundation for a range of dishes, from tangy curries to simple pickles. The fermentation process not only enhances the taste of the bamboo shoots but also adds nutritional value, making it a great choice for those looking to incorporate more fermented foods into their diet. Whether you’re trying out the traditional mesu curry recipe or experimenting with your own creations, this ingredient is sure to bring a new dimension to your culinary repertoire. Embrace the bold flavors of mesu and enjoy the health benefits that come with this ancient fermented delicacy.
By following the recipe provided here, you can experience the rich cultural heritage of northeastern India through your cooking and bring the exotic flavors of mesu into your own kitchen. Enjoy!