Mohinga – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Mohinga is a beloved traditional dish from Myanmar and is often considered the national dish. This comforting noodle soup is served as a breakfast staple, awaken by its aromatic fish broth enriched with lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric. The dish is a reflection of Myanmar’s waterways, where fish and rice flour are abundant, representing the soul of Burmese cuisine. With its fragrant broth, tender rice noodles, and an assortment of crunchy and savory garnishes, Mohinga encapsulates a complex and hearty flavor, perfect for starting your day with warmth and satisfaction.
Ingredients
- Rice noodles – 500 g / 1 lb
- Fish fillets (catfish or tilapia) – 300 g / 10.5 oz
- Water – 4 cups / 960 ml
- Fish sauce – 3 tbsp / 45 ml
- Lemongrass stalks (chopped) – 2 stalks
- Shallots (finely chopped) – 3 medium
- Garlic cloves (minced) – 4 cloves
- Ginger (grated) – 2 tbsp
- Turmeric powder – 1 tsp
- Chickpea flour – 3 tbsp / 24 g
- Cooking oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- Cilantro leaves (chopped for garnish) – 1/4 cup / 4 g
- Hard-boiled eggs (sliced) – 2 eggs
- Fried shallots – As needed for garnish
- Lime wedges – For serving
Instructions
- Boil the fish fillets in 4 cups of water until cooked, about 10-15 minutes. Remove fish and set aside.
- In a separate pan, heat the cooking oil and sauté the shallots, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass until fragrant.
- Add the turmeric powder and mix well. Slowly add the chickpea flour and stir until it forms a roux.
- Pour the fish cooking liquid into the pan while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Shred the cooked fish fillets and return them to the soup with fish sauce, allowing the flavors to meld for 10 minutes.
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and distribute them into serving bowls.
- Pour the fish broth over the noodles and top with cilantro, sliced eggs, and fried shallots.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Substitutions
- Catfish or tilapia fillets -> Any mild white fish
- Chickpea flour -> Rice flour
- Shallots -> Onions
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Enhance flavor by adding dried shrimp powder to the broth.
- Incorporate banana blossoms as a garnish for extra texture.
- Include a step to roast the lemongrass for deeper aroma.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
