Night : DINNER AT MICHELLE’S

Michelle’s dinner spread is fab. But people take some time to enjoy a drink. They are parched and I can’t have alcohol served in our house when Ima is around.

Tamo and I sneak a cigarette on the rooftop. We discuss the ASEAN Motor Car Rally that is passing through en route to Burma on Wednesday. I really want them to see the rally. After all, a big part of my approah to Ralph was that this region is opening up, especially to Southeast Asia, with which Manipur has always had historical and trade ties. What better demonstration of my point than the car rally?

MICHELLE’S DINNER MENU

Kangsoi Soup
Mana Masing Kangsoi

Rou Steamed in Turmeric Leaves
Yaing’ngang Manaa Rou

Stewed Tomatoes Sauce
Khaamen Asinba Thongba

Mustard Greens with Fermented Soy Beans
Hang’gaam Hawaijaar

Black Beans
Chak’hwai

Lentils Cake with Sweetened Milk
Madhurjhan

Gathered Wild greens with Rice
Uti Asangba

Steamed Mixed Seasonal Vegetables
Mana Masing Ang’nganba

Garlic Chives and Lentil Cake
Maroi Paknam

Lilypod Seeds with Chili Fish
Thangjing Ametpa

Black Rice Pudding
Chahou Amuba Sangomkher

Lemon Compote
Champra Thongba

Steamed Mixed Seasonal Vegetables
Mana Masing Ang’nganba

Rice
Chak

Rock Salt on the side
Meitei Thum