Like any major city, Yangon borrows from Myanmar's many ethnic groups, not to mention its neighbors, to create a mosaic of the country's cuisine.
A mash-up of Thai, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Lao, Indian and Burmese dishes, here are seven main must-try sidewalk eats next time you're in the Burmese capital, according to Saveur:
Mohinga
Considered the country's national dish by many, this fishy noodle soup features a thick broth made from chickpea flour and sometimes includes ginger, too.
Mont Lin Ma Yar
Similar to bánh khọt, these bite-sized rice flour pieces are placed in tiny muffin tins, topped with a quail egg, scallions and roast chickpeas then “married” to a second rice flour morsel, hence their nickname: “husband and wife snacks”.
Grilled Skewers
Meat on sticks. Enough said.
Shan Noodles
Hailing from eastern Myanmar's Shan state, these thick rice noodles come in a garlic and black pepper broth and are accompanied by ground pork or chicken, as well as a red pepper sauce similar to Thai sweet chili sauce.
Tea and Fried Foods
Much like the cafes and bia hơi of Vietnam are the place to be at the end of a long workday, Yangon's streetside tea shops are where locals gather to rehash the day's events. Here, a combination of strong black tea and thick condensed milk are the preferred beverage, accompanied by snacks like samosas and other fried delights.
Samosa Salad
These savory snacks are chopped up and placed on a bed of fried shallots and chickpeas, cabbage and potatoes, then doused in broth.
Dosas
India's contribution to Burmese food is a thin, savory pancake made of rice and fermented ground lentils and accompanied by a helping of tomatoes and chickpeas.
[Photos via Saveur]
