Highlights – Meghalaya’s Culinary Treasures
Tribal Delicacies
Traditional dishes from Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia kitchens.
Rice-Based Meals
Staple meals with pork, beef, fish, and chicken.
Natural Ingredients
Use of fermented bamboo shoots, herbs, and wild greens.
Organic & Healthy
Healthy, organic, and locally sourced ingredients.
Diverse Experiences
Street food, homestay meals, and festival feasts.
Cultural Connection
Culinary experiences tied to culture, rituals, and hospitality.
Khasi Cuisine – Hearty & Flavorful
Khasi food is known for its earthy flavors and reliance on local ingredients. Dishes like Jadoh (rice cooked with meat, often pork), Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), and Dohkhleh (a salad of minced meat, onions, and chilies) are local favorites.
Khasi meals often include rice, spicy chutneys, and side dishes made from fresh greens. Food is typically prepared without heavy spices, allowing the natural taste of ingredients to shine.
Garo Cuisine – Smoky & Rich
Garo dishes often feature smoked, fermented, or dried ingredients, reflecting the tribe’s deep connection with forest produce. A staple is Nakham Bitchi, a spicy soup made with dried fish and chilies. Pork is widely enjoyed, often smoked or cooked with bamboo shoots.
Millet and rice form the base of Garo meals, while wild vegetables and herbs add seasonal variety. Garo cuisine is celebrated during festivals like Wangala, where community feasts bring people together.
Jaintia Cuisine – Subtle & Diverse
Jaintia food shares similarities with Khasi cuisine but has its own distinct touches. Fish dishes are popular, often cooked with herbs, mustard, or fermented ingredients. Local favorites include Spiced Fish Curry and preparations with bamboo shoots.
Rice, again, is central to meals, often complemented by fresh vegetables and meat. Jaintia kitchens also highlight traditional preservation methods that ensure flavors year-round.
Street Food & Culinary Tourism
In cities like Shillong, Meghalaya’s cuisine extends to vibrant street food. From Jadoh stalls to spicy momos and fried snacks, travelers can enjoy quick bites alongside local tea. Food markets offer seasonal produce, wild honey, and organic products, while homestays provide an intimate way to experience family recipes.
For food enthusiasts, joining a culinary tour or cooking session with locals makes for a rewarding cultural experience.
FAQ – Meghalaya Cuisine
Q1. What is the staple food of Meghalaya?
Rice is the staple, paired with meat, fish, and vegetables depending on the tribe.
Q2. Which Meghalaya dish should travelers try first?
Jadoh is one of the most iconic Khasi dishes and a favorite among visitors.
Q3. Is Meghalaya cuisine spicy?
It can be, especially with chili-based chutneys, but many dishes focus on natural flavors rather than heavy spices.
Q4. Where can tourists experience authentic food?
Homestays, local markets, and street stalls are the best places for authentic food experiences.
Savor the Authentic Flavors of Meghalaya!
Join us to discover authentic food trails, homestay dining, and culinary tours that reveal Meghalaya's rich heritage.
Plan Your Culinary Adventure