Welcome to the delicious world of Khanom Jeen, a traditional Thai rice noodle dish that has been a part of the culinary culture for centuries! This tasty meal consists of soft, thin rice noodles served with a variety of flavorful curries and fresh toppings. It’s not just food; it’s a cultural experience that represents the rich history of Thailand.
People love Khanom Jeen because it’s not only delicious, but it also allows for creativity. You can mix and match different sauces and toppings to create a meal that suits your taste. Whether eaten at a street stall or made at home, Khanom Jeen is a dish that brings family and friends together. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Rice Noodles | 200 grams |
| Coconut Milk | 1 cup |
| Curry Paste (Green or Red) | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken or Tofu | 150 grams (diced) |
| Fresh Vegetables (like bean sprouts, cucumber, and lettuce) | 1 cup (mixed) |
| Fish Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Lime | 1 (cut into wedges) |
| Fresh Herbs (like cilantro and mint) | 1/4 cup (chopped) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Rice Noodles: Boil a pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the rice noodles and cook for about 5-7 minutes until soft. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Curry: In a medium saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the curry paste and fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Chicken or Tofu: Add the diced chicken or tofu to the pan. Stir well and cook until the chicken is no longer pink or the tofu is heated through.
- Mix in Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season: Add fish sauce for flavor and stir well. Adjust seasoning according to your taste!
- Assemble Your Dish: Place a serving of rice noodles on a plate, pour the curry over the top, and garnish with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a squeeze of lime.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 15% |
| Fats | 15g | 25% |
| Sodium | 500mg | 22% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Curry: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or eggplant!
- Spice It Up: If you love spice, add some chili flakes or fresh chilies to your curry.
- Alternative Proteins: You can use shrimp or beef instead of chicken or tofu for different flavors.
- Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the rice noodles to keep them from being mushy.
FAQs
What is Khanom Jeen?
Khanom Jeen is a traditional Thai dish made with soft rice noodles served with curry and fresh toppings.
Can I make Khanom Jeen vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can use tofu and vegetable curry paste to make a delicious vegetarian version.
What types of curry can I use?
You can use green, red, or even massaman curry paste, depending on your taste preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze Khanom Jeen?
It’s best to freeze the curry separately from the noodles. Both can be frozen for up to 1 month.
What can I serve with Khanom Jeen?
You can serve it with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and even crispy fried garlic for extra flavor!
Is Khanom Jeen gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free curry paste, Khanom Jeen can be a gluten-free dish!
How long does it take to prepare Khanom Jeen?
It typically takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook Khanom Jeen.
Can I make the curry ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the curry a day in advance to save time on the day you serve it.
What if I can’t find rice noodles?
If you can’t find rice noodles, you can use any thin pasta as an alternative, though the texture will be slightly different.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about 2-3 servings, depending on portion sizes.
Is Khanom Jeen spicy?
The level of spiciness can vary depending on the curry paste used. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less paste.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a delightful plate of Khanom Jeen! This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, so gather around and enjoy the flavors of Thailand together!
