Burmese cuisine

Burmese cuisine refers to the food and culinary traditions of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. It includes a rich collection of dishes and meals that have been influenced by the country's diverse ethnic groups and neighboring countries.

History

The history of Burmese cuisine is intertwined with the history of Myanmar itself. The country's strategic location between India, China, and Southeast Asia has resulted in a fusion of flavors and techniques. The cuisine has also been influenced by the country's diverse ethnic groups, including the Bamar, Shan, Rakhine, Mon, and Karen peoples.

Ingredients

Burmese cuisine is characterized by a wide variety of ingredients. Rice is a staple, often served with meat or fish, soup, salad, and a variety of condiments. Other common ingredients include chili peppers, garlic, ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, and fish sauce.

Dishes

There are many notable dishes in Burmese cuisine. Mohinga, a fish soup served with rice noodles, is considered the national dish. Other popular dishes include ohn no khao swè, a coconut milk noodle soup, and laphet thoke, a salad made from fermented tea leaves.

Eating customs

In Myanmar, meals are typically eaten at a low table, with diners seated on mats. Food is often served in a communal style, with all dishes placed in the center of the table. It is customary to eat with the right hand, although utensils are also used.

Influence and spread

Burmese cuisine has influenced, and been influenced by, the cuisines of neighboring countries. It shares many similarities with the food of India, China, and Thailand, among others. In recent years, Burmese cuisine has gained international recognition, with Burmese restaurants opening in many parts of the world.

See also

• Culture of Myanmar
• List of Burmese dishes