Khao piak sen

Khao Piak Sen

Khao Piak Sen is a traditional Lao noodle soup dish that is popular in Laos and among Lao communities around the world. It is a comforting and flavorful soup made with rice noodles, chicken or pork, and a variety of herbs and spices.

Ingredients

The main ingredients for Khao Piak Sen include:

• Rice noodles: These are thick, flat rice noodles that are similar to the ones used in Pad Thai.
• Chicken or pork: The meat is usually boiled and then shredded or sliced thinly.
• Broth: The broth is made by simmering chicken or pork bones with aromatics such as garlic, ginger, and lemongrass.
• Herbs and spices: Khao Piak Sen is typically garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro, green onions, and mint. It is also seasoned with fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice for added flavor.

Preparation

To prepare Khao Piak Sen, the rice noodles are cooked separately according to the package instructions and set aside. The chicken or pork is boiled until cooked through, then removed from the broth and shredded or sliced thinly. The broth is strained to remove any impurities and seasoned with fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice to taste.

Once the broth is ready, the cooked rice noodles are divided into serving bowls and topped with the shredded chicken or pork. The hot broth is then ladled over the noodles and meat. Finally, the soup is garnished with fresh herbs and served hot.

Serving

Khao Piak Sen is typically served as a main dish for lunch or dinner. It is often accompanied by condiments such as chili sauce, sliced chili peppers, and lime wedges, which can be added according to personal preference. The soup is best enjoyed while hot and can be customized with additional herbs or spices to suit individual tastes.

Variations

While the basic recipe for Khao Piak Sen remains the same, there are regional variations in the ingredients and preparation methods. In some areas, beef or seafood may be used instead of chicken or pork. Additionally, some versions of Khao Piak Sen may include additional ingredients such as bean sprouts, fried garlic, or crispy pork rinds for added texture and flavor.

See also

• Lao cuisine
• Rice noodles
• Noodle soup