Shan Noodles
Shan noodles are named after the Shan ethnic group, who live mainly in the mountainous east of Myanmar, on the border with China and Thailand. The recipe reflects the region's historical trade links, bearing similarities to noodle dishes from Yunnan cuisine and northern Thai cooking. Unlike many Myanmar dishes, the flavors here are milder and less spicy, letting the sweetness of the ripe tomatoes and the depth of the turmeric shine through. It is considered a staple dish, often served for breakfast in Shan State towns like Taunggyi and Kalaw, but has now found its way onto menus across every region of Myanmar.
Flat rice noodles
Wide, flat rice noodles are the signature of this specialty from Shan State, on the border with China and Thailand.
Minced pork sauce
Minced pork cooks slowly with turmeric and chili, forming a rich, mildly spicy sauce.
Soft tomatoes as a base
Well-ripened tomatoes melt into the sauce, giving it a natural sweetness and golden color.
Topped with fried peanuts
Crushed peanuts and chopped spring onion add crunch and freshness on top of every bowl.
Ingredients 4 servings
- 400 g flat rice noodles, dried
- 400 g pork, minced
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp roasted peanuts, crushed
- 2 spring onions, chopped
How to make it
- 1Soak the flat rice noodles in warm water for 20 minutes until pliable, then briefly boil them in boiling water and drain.
- 2Heat some oil in a large pan and sauté the chopped onion until translucent and fragrant.
- 3Add the garlic and turmeric, stirring quickly so the spices don't burn.
- 4Put the minced pork into the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until it changes color completely.
- 5Add the chopped tomatoes and chili, letting everything simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until a thick, fragrant sauce forms.
- 6Taste the sauce and adjust the salt to preference, adding a little water if it gets too thick.
- 7Divide the cooked noodles into individual bowls and pour the hot pork sauce over them.
- 8Sprinkle the crushed peanuts and chopped spring onion over each portion before serving.
Nutritional info
per serving (~350 g)
Estimated nutritional values.
Pairs perfectly with
