Bai
An authentic vegetarian recipe from Mizoram, India
Cook Time
35 mins
Servings
4 servings
Difficulty
MediumCategory
VegetarianIngredients
For 4 servings
200g Spinach leaves (or local greens)
150g Mustard greens (or kale)
100g Bamboo shoots (fresh or canned)
100g Pork fat or pork belly (optional)
20g Dried fermented fish (ngari, optional)
5piece Garlic cloves (crushed)
15g Ginger (sliced)
3piece Green chillies (slit)
5g Salt
300ml Water
10 ingredients needed
💡 Pro Tip: Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare this authentic dish
Wash the spinach and mustard greens thoroughly. Roughly chop the leaves and set aside.
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If using bamboo shoots, slice them thinly. If using canned bamboo shoots, drain and rinse well.
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If using pork fat or pork belly, cut into small pieces and render in a pot over medium heat for 5 minutes until the fat melts and the pieces are lightly browned.
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Add the crushed garlic, sliced ginger, and green chillies to the pot. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes.
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If using dried fermented fish (ngari), add it now and stir for 1 minute to release its flavour.
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Add the bamboo shoots and stir to combine with the aromatics.
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Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Add salt.
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Add the chopped spinach and mustard greens. Stir well and cook on medium heat for 8–10 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender but still vibrant.
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Taste and adjust salt. The dish should be a simple, lightly seasoned vegetable stew. Serve hot with steamed rice.
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Chef's Tips
Bai is a simple, wholesome Mizo dish — the focus is on the natural flavour of the greens, so don't over-season.
Ngari (fermented fish) adds a deep umami flavour; if unavailable, a small piece of dried shrimp works as a substitute.
Use a variety of local greens for a more complex flavour — Mizo cuisine traditionally uses whatever greens are in season.
Bai is the everyday comfort food of Mizoram and is always served alongside steamed rice as part of a simple meal.
About This Dish
Bai is a traditional vegetarian dish from Mizoram, India. This authentic recipe provides exact measurements for cooking 4 servings.
- Bai is a simple, wholesome Mizo dish — the focus is on the natural flavour of the greens, so don't over-season. - Ngari (fermented fish) adds a deep umami flavour; if unavailable, a small piece of dried shrimp works as a substitute. - Use a variety of local greens for a more complex flavour — Mizo cuisine traditionally uses whatever greens are in season. - Bai is the everyday comfort food of Mizoram and is always served alongside steamed rice as part of a simple meal.
Category
Vegetarian
Cook Time
35 mins
Servings
4 servings
Difficulty
Medium