Sign In/Sign Up to view the picturesque world, participate in contests and much more
Tasty and slurpy, noodles are the ultimate comfort food for thousands and thousands of people worldwide. If we consider India, noodles (even though not a staple) overtook Indonesia and Vietnam in per capita consumption to become a significant market. Valued at an estimated USD 1.87 billion in 2019, instant noodles were a popular snack in Indian homes and outdoors alike. These numbers are enough to tell Indians’ obsession with noodles. But why restrict yourselves? Here we take you on a journey around the world in noodles.
Pho, Vietnam
Locals can be seen chowing down on steamy bowls of delicious noodle soup every hour of every day in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. The meal uses rice noodles in the shape of linguine, beef or chicken broth, and a variety of spices like ginger, star anise, and coriander seeds. The garnishes—fish sauce, hoisin sauce, Thai basil, cilantro, mint, scallions, chillies, bean sprouts, and a tonne of fresh lime—make the bowl of pho tastier. Although pho is available everywhere, the most incredible places to eat it are at neighbourhood eateries with outdoor seating.
Saimin, Hawaii
Saimin was created and mastered by Hawaiians after the influx of Japanese and Chinese immigration in the 1800s, even though it originated in China. Egg noodles, dashi (a Japanese-style broth), green onions, and a variety of toppings are the ingredients in this dish. Saimin is thought to have gained popularity as a fast food meal during the plantation era in Hawaii and has since become a traditional Hawaiian dish. Hawaii’s McDonald’s has put it on their menu since it is so well-liked.
Wonton Noodles, Hong Kong
The egg noodles, spicy broth, choice of green vegetables, and wonton dumplings in this Cantonese cuisine are a winning combination. The wontons are typically stuffed with shrimp or pork to prevent the noodles from overcooking and becoming soggy.
Shan Noodles, Myanmar
Even though Shan noodles are less popular, they are nevertheless delicious. These rice noodles are a Myanmar staple from the Shan state in eastern Myanmar, which borders Thailand, Laos, and China. Since they are manufactured from a local glutinous strain of rice, they have a sticky feel and are extremely difficult to get elsewhere. The meal is frequently served dry or with veggies and your choice of protein (typically chicken or pork).
Mee Goreng, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore
Mee goreng is a dish that is popular in Malaysia and Indonesia but is also found in Singapore. This dish is a giant bowl of comfort and is typically served with chewy yellow egg noodles that are cooked with garlic, onions, Chinese cabbage, eggs, tomatoes, and a choice of protein. If you are looking for genuine mee goreng, you can get it at mamak kiosks or warungs (casual restaurants or cafés) in Malaysia and Indonesia.
ALSO READ: Five Ways French Fries Are Eaten Around The World
RELATED: Around The World In Seven Pizzas
These unusual travel concepts are tourist niches that are exclusively available to intrepid travellers
Have a breakfast of champions, lah
Outlook’ is India’s most vibrant weekly news magazine with critically and globally acclaimed print and digital editions. Now in its 23rd year…