Myanmar is renowned for its distinctive natural features and delicious, nutritious cuisine. While rice is the staple food of the country, Myanmar cuisine also offers many noodle dishes popular among locals. Today, let's delve into the diverse world of Myanmar's noodle dishes, cherished by locals nationwide.

1. Mohinga (Fish Soup Noodles)

Mohinga, Myanmar's signature dish and a common breakfast delight, tops our list. Loved by all, Mohinga's unique taste comes from a medley of healthy ingredients. Varieties like Yangon Mohinga, Hinthada Mohinga, and Mawlamyine Mohinga offer regional twists. Key ingredients include rice noodles, roasted rice powder, banana stem, lemongrass, ginger, onions, garlic, split chickpeas, and fish.

2. Ohn No Khauk Swe (Burmese Chicken Coconut Noodle Soup)

The second national favourite, Ohn No Khauk Swe, combines the rich flavours of coconut milk and wheat noodles. Other ingredients like chicken, fish sauce, turmeric, ginger, and onions create a savoury blend. Some enthusiasts experiment with prawns instead of chicken. Renowned not only in Myanmar but also abroad, this dish is a flavourful experience.

3. Nan Gyi Thoke (Thick Rice Noodle Salad)

Nan Gyi Thoke, featuring thick round rice noodles, is a breakfast staple and can be found in teashops and restaurants across Myanmar. Also known as Mandalay Mouti Thoke, this Burmese noodle salad consists of thick rice noodles, chicken curry, fish sauce, lime juice, hard-boiled egg, and paprika. When prepared with flat rice noodles, it is referred to as Nan Pia Thoke.

4. Shan Khauk Swe (Shan Noodles)

Originating from Shan State, Shan Noodles can be enjoyed either as a soup or salad, with a similar sauce in both cases. Unlike other noodle dishes, Shan Noodles pair well with chicken or pork. A favourite combination includes crispy skin pork belly or fried tofu, accompanied by pickled mustard greens (monnyinjin). The dish is easy to prepare with ingredients such as rice noodles, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato paste, chilli powder, peanuts, and leek.

5. Meeshay (Rice Noodles with Meat Sauce)

Meeshay, originating in China and adopted by the Shan ethnic people, offers rich and blended flavours. Varieties like Shan or Mogok Meeshay and Mandalay Meeshay are popular. Key ingredients include rice noodles, meat sauce (chicken or pork), bean sprouts, rice flour gel, onions, garlic, chickpea flour, and coriander.

6. Tofu Nway (Noodles in Shan Warm Chickpea Tofu Paste)

Also known as Shan Noodle Soup, Tofu Nway features a warm, creamy tofu mixture with rice noodles. Ideal for cosy weather, this healthy soup includes chicken, tofu powder, rice noodles, onion, garlic, ginger, chilli powder, and peanuts.

Myanmar's diverse noodle dishes offer a wealth of flavours and culinary traditions, making them a beloved part of the country's rich food culture. If you're interested in making one of these dishes, you can find all the ingredients you need at your nearby supermarket. Enjoy creating and savouring these delicious noodle dishes!