In an interview, 6 times world boxing champion M C Mary Kom has said that while she is away on championships, she misses her kids and her kitchen at home the most. Mary is a self-confessed foodie who loves to try out new cuisines of the places that she visits as part of competitions. She also tries to remember the taste and flavours of the special dishes and cook it for her kids. Mary says that her own mother, who is a good cook, is her inspiration for creating wonderful dishes at home.
Though she follows a strict diet to always be on top of her game, Mary does not hesitate to try out some special delicacies as well. Mary has no doubts when she says that China is a paradise of some of the most delicious food in the world.
Even if she is touring some other country as part of tournaments, she prefers eating Chinese dishes. Mary loves to explore the food culture of a country and appreciates the unique flavours and textures of different cuisines. However, Mary confidently says that the most tasty and nutritious food would be coming out of her own kitchen at home. She even has her own little kitchen garden where fresh vegetables and greens are grown. Various spices like ginger and garlic, too, are grown here.
'Magnificent' Mary, who is the champion of the boxing ring, has a special affinity to her own Manipuri cuisine. A special fish curry called Nga Atoiba Thongba is, in fact, her favourite Manipuri dish. Fresh fish is mashed in spicy gravy to prepare this delicious dish. Mary prefers to have chamthong as well, another fish dish made with dried fish.
Though strange for our liking, dog's meat, which is a special delicacy in the north-eastern states, is Mary's favourite. Like most Manipuris, she, too, likes to eat beef and pork dishes.
A balanced diet, packed with nutrients, is what helps Mary to stay fit, healthy, and energetic. She snacks on some healthy dishes before her regular workout and practice sessions. After the training, an elaborate breakfast supplies her with proteins, fibres, and vitamins. She eats lunch between 1 pm and 2 pm. Dinner is served between 8 pm and 9 pm. Juices made with fresh fruits and vegetables, too, are a part of Mary's daily diet. Mary prefers to have a glass of milk before she goes to bed at night. She tries to avoid spicy food when she is participating for a championship.
