Meghalaya – Pumaloi (steamed rice cake)

Pumaloi (Steamed Rice Cake) – Meghalaya

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Pumaloi is a traditional vegetarian dish from Meghalaya, commonly enjoyed by the Khasi and Garo tribes. It is a type of steamed rice cake made from rice flour and sometimes flavored with coconut or jaggery. Pumaloi is a light, healthy, and easily digestible dish, often eaten as a snack, breakfast, or during festive occasions.

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To prepare Pumaloi, rice is soaked, ground into a smooth batter, and lightly fermented. The batter is poured into molds or banana leaves and steamed until firm. Some variations include adding grated coconut, jaggery, or a pinch of salt for flavor. Pumaloi is served hot and can be enjoyed plain or with chutney, making it a simple yet nourishing traditional food.

Key Points about Pumaloi

• Traditional vegetarian steamed rice cake of Meghalaya

• Made from rice flour, sometimes with coconut or jaggery

• Light, healthy, and easily digestible

• Soaked, ground, fermented, and steamed

• Eaten as snack, breakfast, or during festivals

• Served hot, often plain or with chutney

• Represents the Khasi and Garo culinary tradition