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Cuisine Of Myanmar




The cuisine of Myanmar (formerly Burma ) is heavily influenced by the respective cuisines of China , India , and Thailand . However, in spite of the many influences, Burmese cuisine has unique preparation techniques. Different regions of Myanmar have different variations of "standard" dishes. Use of seafood is more prevalent along coastal cities such as Mawlamyine (formerly Moulmien), while ground animals are more commonly used in landlocked cities. Beef and Pork , although not forbidden, are avoided by many Buddhists and Muslims . Vegetarian dishes are also common, as the Buddhist lent (''dadingyut''), a three-month fasting is observed by many orthodox Buddhists.


NOTABLE DISHES

  • Ba-zun-tou, shrimp salad

  • Kao-sui-tou (), noodle salad with fermented fish paste

  • Kya-yo hinga(), lotus roots in chicken/fish broth

  • Gyinto, ginger salad with sesame seeds

  • Mohinga (), vermicelli in fish broth

  • Nankyi tou, tamarind and fish cake salad

  • Oun-no-kao-sui (), curried chicken and noodles in a coconut milk broth

  • Ngapi kye (), fermented fish cake

  • Suikyimo, hardened wheat porridge with poppy seeds

  • Mo-le-saon, tapioca balls in coconut milk

  • Kya-zan-hin-ga



Chinese-inspired

  • Paosee , steamed buns

  • Bhekin, roasted duck

  • Misuan, noodles in light broth

  • Sanpyo , rice porridge



Indian-inspired

  • Danpao (), Burmese style Biryani

  • Palata, a fried flatbread

  • Nanpya, Indian Naan (flat bread)

  • Malain don (), Burmese style Gulab Jamun

  • Samusa (), Burmese style Samosa



Shan-inspired


  • Laphet tou (), salad of pickled tea leaves and spices

  • Shan tofu, Shan style tofu



STARCHES

The most common starch (staple food) in Myanmar is Jasmine Rice , as Myanmar's former nickname was "ricebowl of Asia". Various types of noodles are commonly used in salads and soups. Vermicelli noodles and rice noodles are often used in soups, while thick noodles are used in salads. ''Palata'', a fried flatbread is often eaten with curried meats while '' Naanpya '' (an Indian flatbread) is eaten with Indian dishes.


INGREDIENTS

Ingredients used in Burmese dishes are often fresh. Many fruits are used in conjunction to vegetables in many dishes.

  • bamboo (''hmyin'')

  • banana (''ngapyohdi'')

  • banana root

  • basil (''pinsein'')

  • caraway

  • cauliflower (''gubido'')

  • catfish

  • chili

  • ''chinmaung hinyue''

  • cinnamon

  • coconut (''ounti'')

  • coriander leaves

  • galangal

  • garlic (''kyettun pyu'')

  • ginger (''gyin'')

  • lemongrass

  • Masala

  • mango (''thayedi'')

  • peanut (''myeibhe'')

  • pepper

  • potato (''alu'')

  • pork (''wettha'')

  • tamarind

  • turmeric



FRUITS

Myanmar has a wide range of fruits, and most are of tropical origin. However, some notable Western fruits such as Strawberries are also popular. Durian (''duyindi''), Guava (''malakadi'') and others are commonly served as desserts. Other fruits include Mango , Banana , Jackfruit , Plum , Lychee , and Papaya . Many fruits are also preserved with chili.


EATING CUSTOMS

Traditionally, the Burmese eat dishes on low tables, while sitting on floor mats. Dishes are served more or less at the same time. Chopsticks are the medium of choice for eating, although the use of modern utensils is becoming somewhat more common in urban area. The beverage traditionally served at meals is a light, sugary tea.


INFLUENCES

The three countries that border Myanmar, India, China, and Thailand have influenced much of Burmese cuisine. Indian influences are found in Burmese versions of Indian dishes such as samosas and biryani, as well as the heavy usage of curries and spices. Ethnic Indians have a monopoly on such dishes. Chinese influence in Burmese cuisine is shown in the use of ingredients like bean curd and soya sauce, as well as in stir-frying techniques.


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