Discover the delightful flavors of Nga Htamin, a traditional Burmese fish rice dish that combines perfectly spiced fried fish with aromatic rice. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together fragrant spices and tender fish, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for those looking to explore authentic Burmese cuisine, Nga Htamin is both delicious and simple to prepare. 
Ingredients:
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 lb fish fillets (such as tilapia or catfish)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Prepare the Fish: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, turmeric, paprika, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Dredge the fish fillets in the mixture, coating them evenly.
Fry the Fish: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the fish fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the fish from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Spice Mixture: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, and ground cinnamon.
Combine and Serve: Gently flake the fried fish into bite-sized pieces. Fold the fish into the cooked rice, mixing well to combine. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Serve: Serve the Nga Htamin hot, with lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.
Enjoy this traditional Burmese fish rice dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal!
Nutritional Values
Jasmine Rice
- Calories: 205
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 0.4 grams
Benefits:
- Provides a source of energy with carbohydrates.
- Aromatic and slightly nutty flavor complements many dishes.
Water
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Benefits:
- Essential for cooking rice and maintaining hydration.
Fish Fillets (such as Tilapia or Catfish)
- Calories: 110
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 22 grams
- Fat: 2 grams
Benefits:
- High in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Provides essential nutrients such as vitamin D and B vitamins.
All-Purpose Flour
- Calories: 110
- Carbohydrates: 23 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
Benefits:
- Used for coating fish to achieve a crispy texture.
- Provides a base for many recipes.
Cornmeal
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Fat: 1.5 grams
Benefits:
- Adds crunch and a slightly sweet flavor.
- Provides dietary fiber and some essential minerals.
Turmeric Powder
- Calories: 8
- Carbohydrates: 1.7 grams
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
Benefits:
- Contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound.
- Adds a warm, earthy flavor and vibrant color.
Paprika
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
Benefits:
- Provides a mild, sweet flavor and vibrant red color.
- Contains antioxidants like vitamin A.
Salt
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat:0 g
Benefits:
- Enhances flavor.
- Regulates fluid balance and nerve function.
Black Pepper
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1.5 grams
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
Benefits:
- Adds a pungent flavor and has antioxidant properties.
- May aid in digestion.
Chili Powder (Optional)
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
Benefits:
- Adds heat and complexity to the dish.
- Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism.
Vegetable Oil
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
Benefits:
- Essential for frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Provides healthy fats if using options like olive or canola oil.
Onion
- Calories: 44
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fat: 0.1 grams
Benefits:
- Adds flavor and contains antioxidants and vitamins.
- May have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Garlic
- Calories: 4
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Benefits:
- Adds a strong flavor and has antibacterial properties.
- Contains compounds that may support cardiovascular health.
Ginger
- Calories: 5
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Benefits:
- Provides a warm, spicy flavor.
- May aid in digestion and reduce nausea.
Ground Cumin
- Calories: 8
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.4 grams
- Fat: 0.5 grams
Benefits:
- Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- Contains antioxidants and may support digestion.
Ground Coriander
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
Benefits:
- Adds a citrusy flavor.
- Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion.
Ground Cinnamon
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Fat: 0.03 grams
Benefits:
- Adds a sweet, warm flavor.
- May have anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating effects.
Chopped Cilantro (for Garnish)
- Calories: 4
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Benefits:
- Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and has antioxidant properties.
Lemon Wedges (for Serving)
- Calories: 2
- Carbohydrates: 0.6 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Benefits:
- Adds a zesty, fresh flavor.
- High in vitamin C and can enhance the flavors of the dish.
This combination of ingredients provides a flavorful and balanced meal, with a mix of fresh herbs, spices, and textures.
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