What Is a Recipe That Uses Mesu?

If you’ve ever dabbled in the culinary delights of fermented foods, you might have come across a unique and flavorful ingredient known as Mesu. Originating from the rich traditions of Nepal, mesu is a fermented bamboo shoot that adds a distinctive tang and earthy flavor to various dishes.

If you’re intrigued by this ingredient, you might be asking, What is a recipe that uses mesu? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the origins of mesu, its cultural significance, and provide you with several delectable recipes that showcase this remarkable ingredient.

Whether you’re new to mesu or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll discover how to incorporate this unique flavor into your culinary repertoire.

Understanding Mesu: A Traditional Nepali Ingredient

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a moment to understand what mesu is and why it holds a special place in Nepali cuisine. Mesu is made from young bamboo shoots that are harvested, peeled, and then fermented. The fermentation process can take several weeks, during which the bamboo develops a slightly sour taste, similar to sauerkraut or kimchi. This process not only preserves the bamboo but also enhances its nutritional value, making it rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.

Mesu is a staple in many Nepali households, especially in the eastern regions where bamboo is abundant. It is often used in pickles, curries, and stews, adding a unique depth of flavor to these dishes. The sourness of mesu pairs well with spicy and savory flavors, making it a versatile ingredient in both traditional and modern recipes.

What Is a Recipe That Uses Mesu? Traditional and Modern Approaches

1. Mesu Pickle (Mesu Achar)

One of the most common ways to use mesu is in a traditional Nepali pickle, known as Mesu Achar. This tangy and spicy condiment is a perfect accompaniment to rice, lentils, and other staple dishes in Nepali cuisine.

Mesu Pickle Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots)
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2-3 dried red chilies
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mesu under cold water to remove excess salt.
2. Heat mustard oil in a pan until it starts to smoke. Add fenugreek seeds and dried red chilies, and fry until the seeds turn dark brown.
3. Add turmeric powder and chili powder to the oil, stirring quickly to prevent burning.
4. Add the rinsed mesu to the pan and sauté for 5-7 minutes, allowing the bamboo to absorb the spices.
5. Season with salt and lemon juice, adjusting to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve the pickle as a side dish.

Mesu pickle can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to develop further.

2. Mesu Curry (Mesu Tarkari)

For a heartier dish, mesu can be used in a flavorful curry. This recipe combines the tanginess of mesu with the rich spices of a traditional Nepali curry, creating a dish that is both comforting and full of character.

Mesu Curry Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mesu thoroughly to remove excess salt and set aside.
2. Heat mustard oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds, and sauté until they begin to crackle.
3. Add the chopped onions and green chilies, and sauté until the onions are golden brown.
4. Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes break down and form a thick paste.
5. Add the diced potatoes and mesu to the pan, stirring well to coat the ingredients with the spice mixture.
6. Add water to cover the vegetables, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender and the curry has thickened.
7. Season with salt and garam masala, adjusting to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or flatbread.

This mesu curry is a perfect dish for cold days or when you’re craving something comforting yet different.

3. Mesu and Chicken Stir-Fry

For a modern twist on traditional ingredients, try incorporating mesu into a chicken stir-fry. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and tangy mesu creates a dish that is both satisfying and bursting with flavor.

Mesu and Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots)
• 500g chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mesu under cold water and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced chicken to the pan and stir-fry until it is browned and cooked through.
4. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, and continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Stir in the mesu, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste (if using). Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh green onions.
7. Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles.

This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

4. Mesu Soup (Mesu Jhol)

Mesu can also be used to make a nourishing soup, known as Mesu Jhol in Nepal. This soup is light yet flavorful, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal or as a starter to a larger feast.

Mesu Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots)
• 1 liter vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 potato, diced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mesu under cold water and set aside.
2. Heat mustard oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add the turmeric powder and cumin powder, stirring to combine.
4. Add the chopped tomato, carrot, and potato, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
5. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Add the mesu to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
8. Serve the soup hot, with crusty bread or steamed rice on the side.

This mesu soup is both comforting and nourishing, making it a great option for a light lunch or dinner.

5. Mesu Fried Rice

Fried rice is a beloved dish around the world, and adding mesu to it brings a unique Nepali twist. The tangy flavor of mesu pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of fried rice, creating a dish that is both familiar and exotic.

Mesu Fried Rice Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
• 1/2 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots), chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup green peas
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the diced carrot and green peas, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
4. Add the chopped mesu and cooked rice to the pan, and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the rice is heated through.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

This mesu fried rice is a quick and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

6. Mesu and Pork Stew

For a hearty and comforting meal, try a Nepali-style stew featuring mesu and pork. The rich, savory flavors of the pork are perfectly complemented by the tangy mesu, resulting in a dish that is both filling and flavorful.

Mesu and Pork Stew Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots)
• 500g pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mesu thoroughly to remove excess salt and set aside.
2. Heat mustard oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onion is golden brown.
3. Add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the pork pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides.
5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and green chilies, and cook until the tomatoes break down and form a thick paste.
6. Add water to cover the pork, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.
7. Add the mesu to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This mesu and pork stew is perfect for a cold day, offering warmth and comfort with every bite.

7. Mesu and Tofu Stir-Fry

For a vegetarian-friendly option, mesu pairs beautifully with tofu in this simple stir-fry. The tofu absorbs the tangy flavor of the mesu, creating a dish that is light yet satisfying.

Mesu and Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots)
• 400g firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mesu under cold water and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cubed tofu to the pan and stir-fry until it is golden brown on all sides.
4. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, and continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the mesu, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using). Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh green onions.
7. Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles.

This mesu and tofu stir-fry is a quick and healthy meal that’s perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to add more plant-based dishes to their diet.

8. Mesu and Lentil Soup

For a nutritious and filling dish, try incorporating mesu into a lentil soup. The earthy flavors of the lentils and the tangy mesu create a well-balanced and hearty soup.

Mesu and Lentil Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots)
• 1 cup lentils (any variety)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 potato, diced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mesu and lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. Heat mustard oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced carrot and potato, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Stir in the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the lentils and mesu to the pot, and pour in enough water to cover the ingredients.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
8. Serve the soup hot, with crusty bread or rice on the side.

This mesu and lentil soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

9. Mesu Dumplings (Mesu Momo)

Dumplings, known as momo in Nepal, are a popular snack or meal, and adding mesu to the filling brings a new dimension of flavor. These dumplings can be steamed, fried, or boiled, depending on your preference.

Mesu Dumplings Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots), chopped
• 500g ground meat (pork, chicken, or beef)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 green chili, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Dumpling wrappers
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped mesu, onion, garlic, ginger, green chili, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper.
4. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water and fold to seal, pleating the edges if desired.
5. Steam the dumplings for 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked.
6. Serve the dumplings hot with soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Mesu dumplings are a delicious and unique take on a classic dish, perfect for parties or as a satisfying meal.

10. Mesu and Mushroom Stir-Fry

Mushrooms are a great complement to the tangy flavor of mesu, and this stir-fry is both quick and easy to prepare. It’s a great option for a light meal or a side dish.

Mesu and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesu (fermented bamboo shoots)
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mesu under cold water and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and onions, and stir-fry until the mushrooms are golden brown and the onions are tender.
4. Stir in the mesu, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili flakes (if using). Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh green onions.
6. Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles.

This mesu and mushroom stir-fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.

Exploring the Versatility of Mesu

As you’ve seen, mesu is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes, from traditional Nepali dishes to modern fusion cuisine. Whether you’re making a hearty stew, a tangy pickle, or a quick stir-fry, mesu adds a unique flavor profile that can elevate any dish.

What is a recipe that uses mesu? The answer is multifaceted, as mesu can be adapted to suit a variety of culinary preferences and styles. From pickles and curries to stir-fries and soups, the possibilities are nearly endless. By incorporating mesu into your cooking, you not only explore the rich culinary traditions of Nepal but also introduce your palate to new and exciting flavors.

So the next time you come across mesu at your local market or decide to try your hand at fermenting bamboo shoots at home, remember the wealth of delicious possibilities that await you. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, mesu is an ingredient that promises to bring something special to your table.