Sohphlang (Flemingia vestita) is an organic edible tuberous root that has a sweet crunchy nutty flavour. It is creamy white in colour and is consumed well by the tribals of North East India. The name sohphlang is a local name given by the Khasi community of Meghalaya. Soh means fruit and phlang means grass. It is widely produced in the states of Meghalaya for commercial purposes. It is eaten with Nei-lieh (ground Perilla seeds) by the locals or with some salt and chilli powder keeping you warm in the winter weather.
Sohphlang is planted in February- March, following the shifting cultivation method. The area is left fallow for 5 years before growing this plant again so, the soil is fertile and requires no fertilisers; therefore we can say it is organic. Once it is planted, after a period of a month more soil has to be added to the sohphlang beds. Then, during the month of June- July, the beds have to be cleaned for weeds thoroughly, as they have to be left undisturbed till harvest time in October- November. No weeding process should go on after the month July, but should be watered well.
As sohplang is eaten raw, care has to be taken to clean it well. Once the sohphlang has been harvested, the locals clean it by washing and scrubbing it on the sand to remove the outer layer. After this, its left overnight and the outer skin is easily peeled off the next morning. Then its sent to the neighbouring markets for sale.
Consumption of sohphlang is very good for the stomach. It is rich is phosphorus and proteins. It is a natural de-worming agent. The locals believe that it helps in treating parasitic infections to get rid of intestinal worms, as well as to treat dysentery and stomach aches. A recent research by Public Library of Science, 2015 says that, the root peel extract can serve as an anti-diabetic and anti-obesity drug.
Besides its medicinal properties, it is also a very tasty snack, healthy and fibrous and is being used by local chefs today to create some delicious dishes. So, if you want to know more about this creamy nutty fruit do come back for interesting recipes.