Mohinga

Mohinga – flavorful Myanmar fish noodle soup
Myanmar
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Mohinga is a traditional Burmese fish soup that holds a special place in Myanmar's culinary heritage. Often enjoyed for breakfast, this hearty dish is a comforting blend of fish, herbs, and spices, symbolizing the country's rich cultural tapestry. It is commonly served with rice noodles and garnished with various toppings.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~250 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • For the Broth:
  • 4 cups fish stock or water
  • 1 medium fish (such as catfish or tilapia), cleaned and cut into pieces
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed and smashed
  • 3-4 slices galangal or ginger
  • 2-3 kaffir lime leaves (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon shrimp paste
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1-2 tablespoons palm sugar or brown sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • For the Soup:
  • 1 cup rice noodles or vermicelli noodles
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)
  • Fried onions or garlic (for garnish)
  • Toppings (optional):
  • Boiled eggs, halved
  • Sliced green chilies
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced red onions

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, bring the fish stock or water to a boil. Add the fish pieces, lemongrass, galangal or ginger, kaffir lime leaves, chopped onion, and minced garlic.

Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the fish is cooked through. Remove the fish and set aside to cool. Strain the broth to remove solids and return the liquid to the pot.

Prepare the Soup Base

In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.

Stir in the turmeric powder and chili powder, and cook for another minute. Add the sliced mushrooms if using and cook until they are tender.

Combine Broth and Soup Base

Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the pot with the fish broth. Stir in the shrimp paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Noodles

Cook the rice noodles or vermicelli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Finish the Soup

Add the cooked noodles and bean sprouts to the broth. Simmer for a few minutes until the noodles are heated through.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and fried onions or garlic. Add optional toppings like boiled eggs, sliced green chilies, and sliced red onions.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mohinga?

Mohinga is a flavorful fish soup from Myanmar, typically made with catfish and aromatic herbs.

Where does Mohinga come from?

Mohinga is widely regarded as the national dish of Myanmar, cherished for generations.

What are the main ingredients in Mohinga?

Key ingredients include fish, lemongrass, galangal, onion, and garlic.

How long does Mohinga take to make?

It takes about 50-70 minutes to prepare Mohinga.

What do you serve with Mohinga?

Serve Mohinga with rice noodles, lime wedges, and fresh herbs for added flavor.