Hawaijar

Hawaijar

Hawaijar

Veg Vegan

Manipuri fermented soybean paste — whole soybeans fermented for several days until they develop a sticky, pungent coating, then dried or kept moist. Used as a flavouring ingredient in pork curries and hill community dishes, imparting a deep umami similar to Japanese natto or Korean doenjang.

Cuisines

Manipuri Naga

Best for

Lunch Dinner

Recipe

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Total: 30 min 2-3 servings

Ingredients

250 grams hawaijar (fermented soybeans)
1 tablespoon mustard oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 green chilies, slit
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 handful fresh coriander leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1 Heat mustard oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. 2 Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. 3 Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Stir for a minute until fragrant.
  4. 4 Add the hawaijar to the pan and mix well with the spices.
  5. 5 Pour in the water and add salt. Stir to combine.
  6. 6 Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the water reduces and the flavors meld together.
  7. 7 Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Tips

Hawaijar has a strong flavor, so adjust the amount based on your preference.