Authentic Burmese Onnokauswe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 200g rice noodles
  • 500g chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 4 cups chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 red chili peppers, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
  • 1 bunch of chopped spring onions, for garnish
  • Fried onions, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 20 minutes until they become soft, then drain.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pot and stir until fragrant.
  4. Add the chopped onion and chili peppers to the pot and sauté until the onions become translucent.
  5. Add the sliced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until they turn white.
  6. Add the chicken stock, fish sauce, sugar, and turmeric powder to the pot and bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
  8. Add the soaked and drained rice noodles to the pot and let it cook for another 10 minutes.
  9. Divide the soup into bowls and top each with sliced hard-boiled eggs, chopped spring onions, and fried onions.
  10. Serve the Onnokauswe hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian/vegan version.
  • Use shrimp or beef instead of chicken for different protein options.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or bean sprouts for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Experiment with different types of noodles such as udon, rice vermicelli, or egg noodles.
  • Try adding curry powder or curry paste to give the dish a different flavor profile.
  • Include other herbs and spices like lemongrass, cilantro, or basil for added freshness.
  • For a thicker consistency, mix in coconut milk or coconut cream.
  • Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount of chili peppers used.
  • Top the dish with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for additional texture.
  • Customize the garnishes by adding lime wedges, sliced fresh chilies, or fried garlic.

Recipe overview

Onnokauswe is a comforting Burmese noodle soup that's packed full of flavor. With ingredients like chicken, rice noodles, and a host of aromatic spices, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. The soup is hearty and filling, with a rich broth that's enhanced by the addition of fish sauce, turmeric, and chili peppers. Topped off with sliced hard-boiled eggs, chopped spring onions, and fried onions, every spoonful of Onnokauswe is a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Accompanied by a squeeze of fresh lemon, it's a warming dish perfect for any time of the year. This step-by-step recipe will guide you through the process of creating this traditional Burmese dish in your own kitchen.

Common questions

  1. Can I use different types of noodles for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use different types of noodles such as rice vermicelli or egg noodles as a substitute for rice noodles.
  2. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
    Yes, you can use other proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
    Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable stock and omitting the meat. Add more vegetables or tofu for added flavor and texture.
  4. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
    Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by reducing or increasing the amount of chili peppers used. You can also remove the seeds from the chili peppers for a milder flavor.
  5. Can I prepare the soup in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and cook the noodles fresh for best results.
  6. What other garnishes can I use?
    Aside from sliced hard-boiled eggs, chopped spring onions, and fried onions, you can also garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, lime wedges, or chopped peanuts for added flavor and texture.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Onnokauswe, a comforting and aromatic noodle soup, is a cornerstone of Burmese cuisine. Its name literally translates to "coconut milk noodles," reflecting its creamy, rich base. However, the intriguing element about this dish is its deep-rooted connection with Burmese culture. In Myanmar, where it originates, it is customary to serve Onnokauswe at family gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing unity and a shared love for good food. The addition of a squeeze of lime before eating is said to bring out the true flavors and 'brightness' of the dish. This simple act is regarded as an essential part of the Onnokauswe experience, encapsulating the zest of Burmese life.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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