khao suey recipe

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Khao Suey Recipe A Comforting Burmese Coconut Noodle Soup You’ll Love

Khao Suey recipe is a one-pot Burmese noodle soup packed with rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors. It’s a complete meal made with coconut milk, noodles, spices, and crunchy toppings. Perfect for cozy dinners or weekend indulgence.

This dish is similar to the Thai Khao Soi but carries a distinct Burmese identity. The smooth curry base, combined with your choice of vegetables or chicken, makes it both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need for the authentic Khao Suey recipe:

For the Curry Base:

  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1-inch ginger (grated)
  • 2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken stock
  • Salt to taste

For the Noodles:

200g egg noodles or any noodles of your choice

For Toppings:

  • Fried garlic
  • Fried onions
  • Chopped spring onions
  • Boiled egg (halved)
  • Crushed peanuts
  • Lemon wedges
  • Green chilies (optional)
  • Coriander leaves

How to Make Khao Suey Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Boil water in a large pan. Add salt and the noodles. Cook until just done. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Curry Base

Heat oil in a pan. Sauté onions, ginger, and garlic for 2-3 minutes. Add gram flour and sauté for another 2 minutes.

Add turmeric and chili powder. Cook until the raw smell goes away. Pour in the coconut milk and mix well. Add the stock and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Adjust salt. Stir occasionally. The curry should be slightly thick and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowl

Place noodles in a bowl. Pour hot coconut curry on top. Add toppings of your choice—fried onions, garlic, peanuts, spring onions, and coriander.

Add boiled eggs if desired. Squeeze lemon juice for extra zing.

Why You’ll Love This Khao Suey Recipe

  • It’s gluten-free if you use rice noodles.
  • You can customize it with chicken, tofu, or vegetables.
  • It’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
  • Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better.

Tips for the Perfect Bowl of Khao Suey

  • Roast gram flour before adding to avoid lumps.
  • Always use thick coconut milk for rich flavor.
  • Add toppings just before serving to maintain crunch.
  • Adjust spice level with more or less chili powder.

Pair It With a Healthy Side: Black Chana Salad

To complement this khao suey recipe, try a healthy black chana salad. It adds fiber, protein, and a crunchy contrast.

Black Chana Salad Recipe:

  • Soak and boil 1 cup black chana
  • Add chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and coriander
  • Mix with lemon juice, salt, and a pinch of chaat masala
  • Serve chilled with your khao suey for a complete meal

Health Benefits of Khao Suey

  • Coconut milk supports heart health and good cholesterol.
  • Garlic and ginger boost immunity.
  • Besan is rich in protein and iron.
  • Toppings like peanuts and eggs add healthy fats and protein.

This dish is hearty and fits well into a balanced diet.

Make It Vegan or Keto-Friendly

  1. Swap egg noodles with zucchini noodles for keto.
  2. Use tofu instead of chicken for a vegan twist.
  3. Skip gram flour if you’re avoiding legumes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store curry and noodles separately in the fridge. They last for 2-3 days. Reheat curry on low heat. Add a splash of water or coconut milk if it thickens.

Final Thoughts

Khao Suey recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, comforting meals. It’s quick, versatile, and nourishing. Whether you’re new to Burmese food or already a fan, this recipe will win you over. Don’t forget to serve it with a black chana salad for a balanced, protein-packed meal.

FAQ

Khao Suey is made with noodles, coconut milk, gram flour, and spices. It’s topped with crunchy garnishes and herbs.

Yes, but the taste will differ. You can use cashew cream or almond milk, but coconut milk gives the best result.

It can be mild or spicy. Adjust chili levels to your preference. You can even add green chilies for heat.

Black chana salad, papaya salad, or simple stir-fried greens make great sides.

Yes, especially when made with fresh ingredients and served with protein-rich toppings and healthy sides.