Food in Myanmar: The 6 most delicious dishes of Burmese cuisine

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Are you interested in the food in Myanmar? Then you've come to the right place! There are more than 130 ethnic groups in Myanmar, each with their own cooking traditions. You will be surprised at the diversity of Burmese food, which is not only characterized by regional differences, but also has many different influences from the neighboring countries of China, Thailand and India.

We hope you like fish! Fish paste or sauce is the basis of almost every Burmese dish. Rice or rice noodles are also an important ingredient and in combination with chicken, fish, prawns and a variety of different vegetables, the typical Burmese dishes are created. Whether curry, soup or barbecue - with the selection of delicious food, no one stays hungry, we promise! We have compiled the most important dishes that you should definitely try on your trip through Myanmar.

Mohinga: The national dish of Burma

Food In Myanmar: Mohinga

The favorite is the Fish soup Mohingaeaten by the Burmese for breakfast. Western cultures may find this a little strange, but even at later times you can find the national dish on the road as street food or on most restaurant menus, because the soup is also a delicious snack for in between. It is always prepared with fresh fish, thin vermicelli or rice noodles and various herbs and flavours such as garlic, ginger and lemongrass.

Burmese curry

Curry Myanmar

The curries in Myanmar are different from the Indian or Thai ones. Especially in their spiciness, because Burmese curries are very mild, as they are only seasoned with a little chili and paprika powder. During preparation, various vegetables and (tiger) prawns, chicken or pork are sautéed in peanut oil. Turmeric powder forms the basis and chickpea flour and ground peanuts are used as a binder. 

Shan noodles

Shan Noodles are sticky rice noodleswhich can be found on every menu throughout the country. However, if you want a particularly authentic taste experience, you should order a plate in their region of origin "Shan", i.e. at Inle Lake, in Taunggyi or Pindaya, because that is where the traditional recipe of the noodles comes from. They are often served as a side dish in soups or salads, but also with chicken, tomatoes or chickpeas. It is seasoned with garlic, soy and chili sauce, peanuts and spring onions. 

Lahpet Thoke: Tea Leaf Salad

In Myanmar you can not only drink tea, also the Tea leaf salad Lahpet Thoke is a dish that should not be missed. For the Burmese, it has a deep meaning and is considered a symbol of peace. Traditionally, it was always eaten after a dispute to reconcile. The salad is made of tea leaves, cabbage, onions, tomatoes, beans and roasted peanuts and topped with chilies, sesame seeds, garlic and lemon. Depending on the region, the salad is also served with shrimp. 

Street Barbeque

In many streets, especially in Yangon city, you will hear the smell of freshly grilled fish, meat and vegetables. At most stalls, you get to choose your own ingredients and watch the cooks prepare your food on the smoking grill. It's an experience you definitely don't want to miss out on. 

Tropical fruit

If you're not in the mood for a hearty meal in this warm weather, Myanmar also has a variety of tropical fruits to offer. On almost every street corner you will find melons, papayas, lychees, coconuts, pineapples, bananas and much more. 

You want to try the food in Myanmar?

We hope you enjoyed our little insight into the delicious and diverse cuisine of Myanmar. The country offers not only delicious food, but also beautiful temples, lively cities and pristine nature. To discover Burmese culture from a local's perspective, be sure to check out our Myanmar trip look! And here you can learn even more about Myanmar and prepare yourself for your trip.

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