Lykkers, if you're a fan of rich, flavorful soups, then get ready to try something truly unique.
Ohn-No-Kauk-Swe, a traditional Burmese chicken soup, has captured the hearts of many and will surely warm your soul with its mild yet satisfying flavor.
Let's find into the details of this incredible dish that will bring the taste of Burma right into your kitchen. It's an easy recipe to make and a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal with your loved ones!
What Makes Ohn-No-Kauk-Swe So Special?
This Burmese chicken soup stands out with its creamy texture, thanks to coconut cream, and the perfect balance of spices, with a touch of turmeric, ginger, and fresh chilies. What makes it extra special is the combination of both egg noodles and vermicelli, adding a delightful contrast to each spoonful. For a heartier version, you can use free-range chicken thighs, which bring a depth of flavor that sets this soup apart from others.
Ingredients You Need to Make Ohn-No-Kauk-Swe
The recipe might sound like it has a lot of ingredients, but trust us – they all come together beautifully to create this mouthwatering dish. Here's what you'll need:
For the Soup:
• 125g (4 oz) vermicelli
• 440g (14 oz) thin egg noodles
• 2 liters boiling water
• 600g (21 oz) chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1/4 cup chickpea flour
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 2 large garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh turmeric, chopped (or 3/4 teaspoon ground)
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, chopped
• 2 medium cayenne chilies, deveined and deseeded, chopped (add more for heat)
• 330ml (11 oz) coconut cream
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil
• 5 cups chicken stock
• 2 chicken stock cubes (optional, for a stronger stock)
For the Garnishes:
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 to 1 cup deep-fried onions or shallots
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/2 to 1 cup chopped coriander leaves (cilantro)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons crushed dried chilies
• 2 to 3 hard-boiled eggs, sliced or cut into wedges
• Extra fish sauce for seasoning
Step-by-Step Preparation of Ohn-No-Kauk-Swe
1. Prepare the Noodles
Start by placing the vermicelli and egg noodles in a large bowl and covering them with boiling water. Let them soften and use two forks to separate the strands. Once softened, drain them in a colander and set them aside for later.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Rub the chicken pieces with fish sauce and set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
3. Create the Spice Paste
In a food processor, blend together the onions, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and chilies until smooth. Add a quarter cup of coconut cream to help blend the mixture further. This aromatic paste will form the base of the soup's flavor.
4. Cook the Paste and Chicken
Heat the peanut oil in a large pan and add the spice paste. Stir-fry for about three minutes until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the chicken pieces and cook for an additional three minutes. Add half the chicken stock (2 1/2 cups) and one chicken stock cube if you're using them, bringing it all to a boil. Let the mixture cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring every five minutes, until it begins to thicken.
5. Prepare the Chickpea Flour Mixture
While the soup is simmering, dissolve the chickpea flour in cold water, setting it aside. In another pan, heat the remaining chicken stock and add the chickpea flour mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Once it thickens after about five minutes, pour it through a sieve into the chicken mixture. Stir well to combine.
6. Final Touches
Add the remaining coconut cream to the soup and bring it back to a boil. While the soup is heating, bring another kettle of water to boil. Pour this hot water over the softened noodles to reheat them.
How to Serve Ohn-No-Kauk-Swe
To serve, each person can add some noodles to their bowl, followed by the chicken soup mixture. Top it with your choice of garnishes – we recommend a generous helping of deep-fried onions, coriander, lime wedges, and crushed dried chilies for added flavor and crunch. Don't forget to add extra fish sauce if you like your soup a bit saltier!
This soup is a celebration of Burmese flavors and a fantastic way to introduce yourself to the unique and comforting cuisine of Burma!
Ohn No Khao Swé | Authentic Burmese Recipe
Video by Aysha’s Burmese Kitchen
