If you’re looking for a comforting, flavour-packed meal, Khow Suey is hard to beat. This creamy Burmese-inspired noodle soup combines fragrant spices, rich coconut milk, and tender chicken or vegetables, all served over noodles and finished with a variety of crunchy toppings.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in one pot and is perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Broth

• 5–6 small garlic cloves
• ½-inch piece of ginger
• 2 green chillies
• ½ onion
• 2 tbsp besan (gram flour)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ cup thick coconut milk
• Chicken or vegetables of your choice
• Salt to taste
• Oil for cooking
• Boiling water

To Serve

• Boiled noodles
• Crispy fried onions
• Crispy fried garlic
• Chopped spring onions
• Chopped green chillies
• Fresh coriander
• Roasted peanuts
• Lemon juice

How to Make Khow Suey

Step 1

Grind the onion, garlic, ginger, and green chillies into a coarse paste.

Step 2

Heat oil in a pot and sauté the paste until the raw smell disappears.

Step 3

Add the besan and cook for a minute, stirring continuously.

Step 4

Mix in the turmeric, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook until the spices become fragrant.

Step 5

Pour in boiling water and add your chicken or vegetables. Simmer until everything is fully cooked.

Step 6

Season with salt.

Step 7

Reduce the heat and stir in the coconut milk just before switching off the flame. Avoid boiling after adding the coconut milk.

How to Assemble Khow Suey

1. Place cooked noodles in a serving bowl.
2. Ladle the hot coconut broth generously over the noodles.
3. Finish with your favourite toppings.

The combination of crunchy fried onions, crispy garlic, roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, and lemon juice creates the signature Khow Suey experience.

Tips for the Best Khow Suey

• Add coconut milk at the end for a silky, creamy broth.
• Boiling water helps the soup come together quickly.
• Use boneless chicken for convenience, or swap it with mushrooms, tofu, or mixed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Don’t skip the toppings—they add texture and freshness that balance the creamy broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Khow Suey?

Khow Suey is a Burmese-inspired coconut noodle soup that’s popular for its creamy broth and generous assortment of crunchy toppings.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with your favourite vegetables or tofu.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes. Prepare the broth ahead of time and cook the noodles just before serving for the best texture.

Which noodles work best?

Egg noodles are traditional, but hakka noodles, ramen, or even spaghetti can be used if that’s what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Khow Suey as a complete meal with plenty of toppings. A squeeze of fresh lemon just before eating brightens the flavours and ties everything together.