A FOOD TRADITION

Mon Cuisine

Mon cuisine is associated with Mon communities in lower Myanmar, especially the delta and southeastern coastal areas, and forms part of a wider Mon cultural region extending into Thailand. Rice, freshwater and marine fish, shrimp paste, coconut, tamarind, turmeric, lemongrass, and fragrant herbs are common foundations. Techniques include pounding relishes, simmering fish and vegetable curries, steaming, and combining sour, salty, spicy, and mildly sweet flavors. Representative foods include mon hin kha, a Mon-style rice-noodle and fish dish; kyazan hin, a banana-blossom preparation; and fish curries or salads seasoned with turmeric, fermented seafood, and local herbs.

Catalogue preview Cuisine connections may be unreviewed. Regional comparisons include their food references and do not establish the ingredients of a particular meal.