Authentic Manipuri Thongba Recipe: A Traditional Rice Beer Delight

Ingredients

500 ml Manipuri black rice
2 litres of water
250 ml of homemade rice beer (or any locally available rice beer)
1 teaspoon of yeast powder
3 tablespoons of sugar
1 tablespoon of honey

Steps and instructions

Wash the black rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear to remove any impurities.
Add the washed rice to a large pot, then pour in the 2 litres of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and has a porridge-like consistency.
While the rice is simmering, dissolve the yeast powder in a small amount of warm water and set it aside.
Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Add the yeast solution to the pot and stir well to combine.
Let the mixture sit for about 4-5 hours to allow the yeast to ferment the rice. This will give the Thongba its unique and distinctive flavor.
After the fermentation period, add the rice beer to the pot and stir well to combine. If you wish for a stronger taste, you can add more rice beer.
Add the sugar and honey to the pot and stir until they are fully dissolved.
Place the pot back on the stove and heat the Thongba over medium heat until it is warm but not boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Serve the Thongba warm in small bowls. Enjoy your homemade Thongba!

Tools for making

Large pot - A pot with a capacity of at least 2 litres to cook the black rice and Thongba.
Stirring spoon - A long spoon or ladle to stir the rice and Thongba while cooking.
Measuring cup - A cup with metric measurements to accurately measure the rice beer and water.
Small bowl - A bowl to dissolve the yeast powder in warm water.
Warm water - Water at a temperature that is warm enough to dissolve the yeast powder.

Recipe variations

Replace the black rice with white rice for a lighter flavor.
Add spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, or nutmeg to enhance the aroma and taste.
Experiment with different types of homemade rice beer or substitute it with a different alcoholic beverage like beer or wine.
Add fruits like pineapple, mango, or apple to infuse a fruity flavor to the Thongba.
Add nuts like cashews, almonds, or pistachios for a crunchy texture.
For a savory twist, add cooked chicken, pork, or shrimp to make it a hearty one-pot meal.
Replace the sugar with jaggery or honey for a natural sweetener.
Garnish with freshly grated coconut, chopped mint leaves, or sliced almonds for added visual appeal.
For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Add a pinch of saffron strands to give the Thongba a vibrant yellow color.

Recipe overview

Thongba is a traditional Manipuri fermented rice beer, enjoyed as a refreshing and warming beverage. This homemade version is made with black rice, producing a unique, earthy flavor and beautiful deep purple color. The preparation process is straightforward, although the fermentation time adds a few hours to the overall preparation time. This recipe uses homemade rice beer, but store-bought rice beer can also be used. The final result is a mildly sweet, aromatic, and slightly tangy drink that's perfect for a cozy evening. As with all alcoholic beverages, it should be consumed responsibly. Enjoy the process and savor the unique flavors of this traditional Manipuri beverage.

Common questions

Can I use any type of rice for Thongba? No, Thongba is traditionally made using Manipuri black rice, which gives it a unique flavor and color. It is recommended to use black rice for an authentic Thongba experience.
Do I have to use homemade rice beer? While homemade rice beer is preferred for an authentic taste, you can also use any locally available rice beer as a substitute.
Can I skip the fermentation step? No, the fermentation step is crucial as it adds a distinct flavor to the Thongba. Skipping this step may result in a different taste and texture.
How long does the fermentation process take? The fermentation process usually takes around 4-5 hours, but you can leave it for longer if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the Thongba? Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the Thongba by adding more or less sugar and honey according to your taste preferences.
Can I serve Thongba chilled? Thongba is traditionally served warm, but if you prefer it chilled, you can refrigerate it after it has cooled down.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the black rice and combine all the ingredients.
Stirring spoon - A stirring spoon is required to stir the Thongba as it cooks and to mix in the ingredients.
Measuring cup - A measuring cup is essential to accurately measure the rice beer, water, sugar, and honey.
Small bowl - A small bowl is needed to dissolve the yeast powder in warm water before adding it to the Thongba.
Serving bowls - Small bowls are used to serve the Thongba to enjoy it warm.
Ladle - A ladle is helpful for serving the Thongba from the pot into individual bowls.

Origin stories

Thongba, also known as Manipuri rice beer, holds a special place in the culture and traditions of the Manipuri people, an ethnic group native to the northeastern Indian state of Manipur. In the olden days, it was considered an integral part of every household in Manipur, brewed and stored for daily consumption as well as for special occasions. This intoxicating beverage is typically served in social and religious gatherings, signifying unity and brotherhood among the community members. A unique aspect about Thongba is that it's customarily served in a big brass pot with bamboo straws, shared by people sitting around the pot, fostering a sense of bonding and camaraderie. Sadly, with the advent of modern beverages and lifestyle changes, the tradition of Thongba brewing is slowly fading. Yet, for many Manipuris, Thongba continues to be an enduring symbol of their cultural heritage, a liquid testament to their history and way of life.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.