Khao Piak Sen

Khao Piak Sen – comforting Laotian noodle soup
Laos
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Khao Piak Sen offers a gentle embrace through its light, aromatic broth infused with ginger, garlic, and aromatic spices. This traditional Laotian rice noodle soup has comforted generations with its simplicity and nourishing qualities. Served warm with fresh vegetables and herbs, Khao Piak Sen represents everyday Lao comfort food. The tender rice noodles soak up the delicate broth flavors, creating a deeply satisfying meal.

⚡ Easy 🔥 ~350 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • For the Soup:
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 piece ginger (about 2 inches), sliced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 200g rice noodles (fresh or dried)
  • 1 cup cooked chicken or pork, shredded (optional)
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1 cup baby spinach or fresh herbs (cilantro, basil)
  • For Garnish:
  • Lime wedges
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Sliced chili peppers
  • Fried shallots (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Soup Base

Sauté Aromatics

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Add Ginger

Add sliced ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Make the Soup

Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cook Noodles

If using dried rice noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. If using fresh noodles, add them directly to the pot.

Add Meat and Vegetables

Add the cooked chicken or pork, bean sprouts, and baby spinach (or herbs) to the soup. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the vegetables are cooked.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the Khao Piak Sen hot, garnished with lime wedges, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced chili peppers, and fried shallots if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Khao Piak Sen?

Khao Piak Sen is a delicate Laotian rice noodle soup with a lightly seasoned, aromatic broth. The chewy rice noodles soak up flavors beautifully when served with shredded meat, fresh herbs, and vegetables.

Where does Khao Piak Sen come from?

This noodle soup is a beloved comfort food throughout Laos, served in homes, markets, and restaurants as a staple breakfast and light meal choice.

What are the main ingredients in Khao Piak Sen?

The soup combines rice noodles with a simple broth of chicken or vegetable stock, garlic, onion, ginger, fish sauce, soy sauce, and topped with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Any tips for making the best Khao Piak Sen?

Keep the broth clear and light, cook noodles separately if using dried ones to prevent cloudiness, and let diners customize with fresh herbs and condiments at the table.

What do you serve with Khao Piak Sen?

Serve with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sliced chilies, and fried shallots on the side for individual customization of this mild, soothing soup.