At Humble Origins Superfoods, we bring you spices from the hills of Meghalaya. One of our favorites is Natural Makhir Ginger, a rare, intensely aromatic ginger prized for its bold flavor.
What Is Makhir Ginger?
Makhir ginger, locally called "Ing Makhir" or "Sying Makhir," is a rare variety of ginger native to the hilly terrain of Meghalaya, especially villages in the Jaintia Hills such as Khatkasla and Sahsniang. It is botanically known as Zingiber rubens. It stands out for:
- Exceptional pungency
- A bright, citrusy aroma alongside its heat
- A bold flavor that goes a long way in the kitchen
How We Source It
Natural Makhir Ginger is one of our six single-origin ingredients from Meghalaya, and most of our spices come direct from the farmer. It is sold as a ground spice with a single ingredient.
How to Use Makhir Ginger
Ground Makhir ginger works in:
- Teas and warm drinks
- Spice blends and masalas
- Soups, stews, and broths
- Marinades, dressings, and baking
For an easy morning drink, stir a little into warm water with lemon and honey. For a recipe to start with, try our Golden Turmeric Ginger Soup, our Natural Makhir Ginger Fizz, or the stir-fry below.
Turmeric & Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry
This stir-fry combines tender chicken with crisp vegetables, with the earthy warmth of Golden Lakadong Turmeric, a subtle kick of Warm Wild Long Pepper, and the aromatic depth of Natural Makhir Ginger. Optional perilla seeds add a nutty crunch. It is a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon Natural Makhir Ginger
1 teaspoon Golden Lakadong Turmeric
1/2 teaspoon Warm Wild Long Pepper (or black pepper)
1 tablespoon Pure Perilla Pearls (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, ginger, and turmeric. Add the sliced chicken and marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat the sesame oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Add the broccoli and red bell pepper and cook for another 5–7 minutes, until tender-crisp.
- Pour in the leftover marinade and bring to a simmer. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Sprinkle with long pepper and perilla seeds (if using) before serving.
Tips: Chicken thighs work in place of breasts. Serve over rice or noodles.
Why Humble Origins Superfoods?
We are two working mothers who source single-origin spices from Meghalaya and bring them to your kitchen. Explore all our single-origin superfoods, or compare it with regular ginger in our Makhir vs regular ginger guide.
