Absolutely! Khao Piak Sen is a comforting, traditional Lao chicken noodle soup known for its thick, chewy rice noodles and savory, aromatic broth. Here’s a detailed recipe:
Khao Piak Sen (Lao Chicken Noodle Soup)
Ingredients (serves 4)
For the broth:
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1 lb (450 g) chicken (thighs or drumsticks for flavor)
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8 cups water
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3–4 garlic cloves, smashed
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1–2 slices ginger
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2–3 green onions, roughly chopped
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1 small onion, quartered
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1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
For the rice noodles:
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8 oz (225 g) fresh thick rice noodles (or dried rice noodles)
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2 tablespoons rice flour (optional, for thicker noodles if making from scratch)
For garnishes (traditional):
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Fresh cilantro
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Fresh green onions, chopped
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Bean sprouts
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Lime wedges
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Chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies
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Fried garlic or shallots (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the broth:
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In a large pot, combine chicken, water, garlic, ginger, onion, green onions, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
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Simmer for 30–40 minutes until the chicken is cooked and flavorful.
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Remove chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
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Strain the broth if desired for a clear soup, then return it to the pot.
2. Prepare the noodles:
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If using fresh rice noodles, blanch them in boiling water for 1–2 minutes until soft, then drain.
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If using dried rice noodles, cook according to package instructions.
3. Assemble the soup:
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Add shredded chicken back to the broth.
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Add noodles and let them warm through for 1–2 minutes.
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Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Serve with garnishes:
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Ladle soup into bowls.
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Top with cilantro, green onions, bean sprouts, fried garlic, lime wedges, and chilies to taste.
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Stir and enjoy!
💡 Tips for authentic Khao Piak Sen:
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The signature “chewy” noodle texture comes from slightly thicker rice noodles, often hand-pulled or made with rice flour.
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You can simmer the broth longer for a richer flavor.
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A little crushed garlic fried in oil and drizzled on top adds an authentic Lao aroma.
If you like, I can also give you a step-by-step method to make the traditional Lao noodles from scratch, which makes the soup extra authentic and delightfully chewy.