Nan Gyi Thoke Recipe Easy Guide to Authentic Burmese Salad

Nan Gyi Thoke is a beloved Burmese dish that perfectly captures the vibrant flavors and textures of Myanmar cuisine. This traditional noodle salad is a delightful mix of thick rice noodles, spiced chicken curry, crunchy chickpea flour, fresh herbs, and tangy lime, all tossed together to create a harmonious bite that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Whether you’re a fan of Southeast Asian flavors or looking to try something new and exciting, Nan Gyi Thoke offers a unique culinary experience that stands out from typical noodle dishes.

In this recipe, I’ll guide you through every step to make authentic Nan Gyi Thoke at home, complete with tips on ingredients and variations to suit your taste. This dish is not only hearty and flavorful but also versatile enough to be adapted for vegetarians or those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Let’s dive into this Burmese street food favorite and bring a taste of Myanmar right to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nan Gyi Thoke is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors. The thick, chewy rice noodles provide a perfect base for the fragrant chicken curry that coats each strand.

Adding crunchy chickpea flour and roasted peanuts brings a satisfying contrast, while fresh aromatics like shallots and lime juice brighten the dish. It’s a feast for the senses with every bite offering a balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes.

Not only is it delicious, but Nan Gyi Thoke is also incredibly customizable. You can adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or even make a vegetarian version using tofu or mushrooms.

Plus, it’s a great recipe for meal prep as the components can be made ahead and assembled quickly.

If you enjoy exploring Asian noodle dishes, be sure to check out other recipes like Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious and Asian Noodle Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Meals for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• 250g thick rice noodles (Nan Gyi noodles or wide rice noodles)
• 300g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 2 tablespoons chickpea flour
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 100ml coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon roasted peanut oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, crushed
• 2 tablespoons fried shallots
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• Fresh lime wedges, to serve
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Medium saucepan or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or strainer
• Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken curry: Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
2. Add spices: Stir in turmeric powder, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices.
3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the pan, cooking until they are lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add liquids: Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir well to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
5. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the sauce and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the sauce and mix well. Keep warm on low heat.
6. Cook noodles: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions (generally 3-5 minutes), until just tender but still chewy. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
7. Prepare chickpea flour: In a small dry skillet, toast the chickpea flour over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
8. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the chicken curry, tossing gently to coat the noodles evenly.
9. Add toppings: Sprinkle toasted chickpea flour, crushed peanuts, fried shallots, and fresh cilantro over the noodles. Drizzle with a little roasted peanut oil if desired.
10. Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and toss lightly once more. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Tips & Variations

Use thick rice noodles specifically labeled ‘Nan Gyi’ or wide rice noodles to replicate the authentic texture of this dish.

For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.

Adjust the chili powder according to your heat tolerance. Burmese cuisine often balances spice with tang and crunch, so don’t be afraid to add fresh lime and peanuts generously.

Pro tip: Toasting the chickpea flour is essential—it adds a unique nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Nan Gyi Thoke is typically enjoyed as a standalone meal due to its hearty nature. However, you can complement it with light Burmese sides such as fresh cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to add a refreshing contrast.

For a fuller spread, consider pairing this dish with Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or a crisp Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas. A simple bowl of clear soup like Basic Vegetable Soup Stock Recipe For Rich Flavor Boost also pairs beautifully.

Conclusion

Nan Gyi Thoke is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Burmese street food into your kitchen. Its mix of thick rice noodles, rich chicken curry, crunchy toppings, and fresh herbs creates a delightful balance that is both comforting and exciting.

This recipe is approachable enough for home cooks but packed with authentic flavors that will impress your family and friends.

Whether you are new to Burmese cuisine or an avid fan, this Nan Gyi Thoke recipe is sure to become a favorite. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable options, you can enjoy this dish year-round.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site to expand your culinary repertoire and enjoy healthy, flavorful meals every day!

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