5 cosy broth-based dishes from around the world to warm your heart and soul

Monsoons in India are typically synonymous with a hot cup of tea and a steaming plate of pakoras. However, if you look beyond the traditional staples, you will find that a simple noodle broth serves just as well as a warm hug on a rainy day. It not only satisfies your hunger but also allows you to experience the dynamic flavors and ingredients from around the world. While the rain might wash out your outdoor plans, a steaming bowl of flavorful noodle broth can take care of your culinary needs and some of your travel needs (quite literally). This monsoon, soak in dishes that transport you to far-off places and let the world's flavors chase away your rainy day blues.

Pho, Vietnam 

Pho, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, is celebrated for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and cultural significance. This Vietnamese culinary staple features a slow-cooked beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and an array of spices, including ginger, star anise, and coriander seeds. It is traditionally- garnished with herbs like cilantro, mint, Thai basil, and perilla leaves, as well as bean sprouts, scallions, chilies, and lime. Pho-relished throughout the day, from morning to late-night cravings, prevalent in bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh and modest street-side eateries like Pho Binh. Its versatile appeal, rich taste, and comforting qualities have earned it a global following. 

Ramen, Japan 

Ramen, a cherished Japanese classic, is famous for its flavorful broth, chewy noodles, and various toppings, establishing itself as a major culinary symbol with significant cultural significance. While it originated in Japan, ramen has become popular globally. It usually consists of a savoury broth cooked for hours using pork, chicken, seafood, and ingredients like kombu (seaweed), bonito flakes, and miso or soy sauce. The noodles, which can be freshly made or sourced from specialty stores, come in different thicknesses and textures, adding to their overall appeal.

Laksa, Singapore, Malayasia

This noodle soup, with a curry base and vermicelli rice noodles, typically features a coconut or tamarind foundation and its iteration with shrimp is especially delectable. Hailing primarily from Malaysia and Singapore but also enjoyed throughout the region, laksa is a fusion of Chinese and Malay culinary influences, resulting in a unique blend of flavours. Toppings like prawns, chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, laksa leaves, egg, shallots, and lime enhance the taste and textures of laksa.

Khao Suey, Myanmar

Khao Suey, a beloved dish from Myanmar (formerly Burma) is renowned for its delectable flavours and comforting nature. This dish is a fusion of Burmese, Thai, and Indian culinary traditions, resulting in an aromatic noodle soup. At the heart of Khao Suey lies a heavenly coconut milk broth and a combination of flavours like garlic, ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass. This aromatic base is poured over soft noodles, creating a velvety texture that pairs well with the soup's creamy goodness.

Thukpa, Tibet 

Thukpa, a Tibetan delicacy, means "noodle soup" in Tibetan, highlighting its core components of handmade noodles in a tasty broth. With its roots in Tibet and popularity across the Himalayan areas, Thukpa symbolises comfort and nutrition through its mix of meat or veggies, spices, and fresh components. This soothing soup comforts the soul and provides a glimpse into Tibetan culinary customs and warmth, establishing it as a cherished dish at home and worldwide.

Image credits: Pinterest

Also read: Monsoons, through the lens of cinema

Also read: Woody fragrances to invest in this monsoon

Also read: Warm indulgent desserts for a cool, monsoon day