Chiang Mai Sunshine Noodles
Introduction
The dish known as Chiang Mai Sunshine Noodles is a vibrant and flavorful representation of Northern Thai cuisine. Inspired by the lush, aromatic ingredients native to the region, this dish is a celebration of bold flavors and textures. The warm, fragrant turmeric spiced broth, coupled with tender noodles and a plethora of fresh herbs, makes it a comforting and energizing meal. It is believed that the dish has roots in the culinary traditions of the Lanna Kingdom, lending it a rich historical backdrop that attracts food lovers around the world.
Ingredients
- Rice Noodles (400g)
- Chicken Breast (500g, sliced)
- Coconut Milk (400ml)
- Turmeric (2 teaspoons)
- Lemongrass (1 stalk, finely chopped)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Ginger (1 inch, grated)
- Lime (1, juiced)
- Fish Sauce (2 tablespoons)
- Palm Sugar (1 tablespoon)
- Fresh Coriander (to garnish)
- Fresh Mint (to garnish)
- Red Chili (1, sliced for garnish)
Preparation
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preparing your ingredients. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips and set aside. Mince the garlic and ginger, ensuring that they are finely chopped for even cooking. Cut the lemongrass into small pieces. Squeeze the lime to extract fresh juice. Gather fresh leaves of coriander and mint for garnishing.
Making the Broth
In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped lemongrass. Cook until fragrant. Stir in the turmeric and cook for another minute, ensuring it does not burn.
Combining Ingredients
Add the sliced chicken breast to the pot and cook until the chicken is no longer pink. Pour in the coconut milk and mix well. Add in the fish sauce and palm sugar, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Process
The Noodles
While the broth is simmering, prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking the noodles in boiling water for about 5 minutes until they become soft yet firm. Drain and set aside.
Final Combination
Once the broth is ready, add the drained rice noodles into the pot. Stir to combine everything well and let it all cook together on low heat for a few minutes. Make sure the noodles absorb the flavors from the broth.
Garnishing
Dish out the noodles into individual bowls, making sure each serving gets a good amount of chicken and broth. Garnish with fresh coriander, mint, and sliced red chili for an extra kick. Squeeze additional lime juice over the top if desired.
Enjoying the Dish
Chiang Mai Sunshine Noodles are best enjoyed fresh and hot, allowing you to savor the aromatic, tangy, and slightly sweet profile of the dish. The combination of tender noodles, succulent chicken, and a rich, coconut-infused broth is satisfying and delicious. Serve with a side of crunchy vegetables or pickled condiments to add contrast. Use a cooking timer to ensure each step is perfectly timed for optimum flavor. Pair the meal with a light, fruity white wine or a chilled Thai beer to complement the spicy and fragrant dish.