Discover the authentic recipe for Kauk Swe, a traditional dish of steamed rice flour cakes. This flavorful Burmese delicacy is often served with a spicy, savory sauce that complements the soft and tender texture of the cakes. Perfect for a unique and satisfying meal or snack, Kauk Swe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Try this recipe to bring a taste of Myanmar to your table!

Ingredients:

For the Rice Flour Cakes:

 - 2 cups rice flour

 - 1 cup water

 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

 - 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)

For the Spicy Sauce:

 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

 - 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

 - 2 tablespoons red chili paste

 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce

 - 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or substitute with extra soy sauce for a vegetarian option)

 - 1 tablespoon sugar

 - 1/2 cup water

 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

 - Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Rice Flour Cakes:

  - In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour, water, salt, and sugar (if using). Mix well until smooth.

  - Pour the mixture into a greased steaming dish or heatproof bowl.

  - Steam over boiling water for 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture has set and is firm to the touch.

  - Allow the cakes to cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Make the Spicy Sauce:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.

  - Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant and golden.

  - Stir in the red chili paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Cook for 1-2 minutes.

  - Add water and bring the mixture to a simmer.

  - Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce has thickened.

  - Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve:

  - Place the steamed rice flour cakes on a serving plate.

  - Drizzle with the spicy sauce.

  - Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.

  - Enjoy your Kauk Swe warm as an appetizer or a main dish!

Notes:

- For a milder sauce, adjust the amount of red chili paste to taste.

- The rice flour cakes can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

Nutritional Values

Rice Flour

- Calories: 365

- Carbohydrates: 80 grams

- Protein: 6 grams

- Fat: 1 gram

- Fiber: 2 grams

Benefits:

- Gluten-Free: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

- Energy: Provides a high amount of carbohydrates, which are a good source of energy.

- Low in Fat: Contains minimal fat, making it a low-fat option for various recipes.

Water

- Calories: 0

Benefits:

- Hydration: Essential for maintaining proper hydration levels in the body.

- Solvent: Helps in dissolving other ingredients and adjusting the consistency of the batter.

Salt

- Calories: 0

- Sodium: 38,758 mg

Benefits:

- Electrolyte Balance: Maintains fluid balance and proper nerve function.

- Flavor Enhancer: Improves the taste of the cakes.

Sugar (optional)

- Calories: 387

- Carbohydrates: 100 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

- Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

- Flavor: Adds a slight sweetness to balance the flavors in the cakes.

Vegetable Oil

- Calories: 884

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

- Fat: 100 grams

- Saturated Fat: 14 grams

- Monounsaturated Fat: 73 grams

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8 grams

Benefits:

- Healthy Fats: Provides essential fatty acids.

- Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps protect cells.

Garlic

- Calories: 149

- Carbohydrates: 33 grams

- Protein: 6 grams

- Fat: 0.5 grams

- Fiber: 2.1 grams

- Vitamin C: 31% of the Daily Value (DV)

- Calcium: 181 mg

- Potassium: 401 mg

Benefits:

- Allicin: Provides antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

- Heart Health: May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Ginger

- Calories: 80

- Carbohydrates: 18 grams

- Protein: 1.8 grams

- Fat: 0.8 grams

- Fiber: 2 grams

Benefits:

- Gingerol: Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

- Digestive Health: Aids in digestion and reduces nausea.

Red Chili Paste

- Calories: 80

- Carbohydrates: 10 grams

- Protein: 2 grams

- Fat: 3 grams

Benefits:

- Capsaicin: Enhances metabolism and provides pain relief.

- Flavor: Adds spiciness and depth to the sauce.

Soy Sauce

- Calories: 53

- Carbohydrates: 5 grams

- Protein: 8 grams

- Fat: 0.1 grams

- Sodium: 5,000 mg

Benefits:

- Umami Flavor: Adds a rich, savory taste to the sauce.

- Amino Acids: Contains essential amino acids.

Fish Sauce (or Extra Soy Sauce for Vegetarian Option)

- Calories: 40

- Carbohydrates: 2 grams

- Protein: 6 grams

- Fat: 0 grams

- Sodium: 1,500 mg

Benefits:

- Umami Flavor: Adds depth and complexity to the sauce.

- Amino Acids: Contributes to the flavor profile and overall nutrition.

Sugar

- Calories: 387

- Carbohydrates: 100 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

- Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

- Flavor: Balances the heat and saltiness in the sauce.

Water

- Calories: 0

Benefits:

- Solvent: Helps dissolve other ingredients and adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Cornstarch

- Calories: 381

- Carbohydrates: 91 grams

- Protein: 0.3 grams

- Fat: 0.1 grams

Benefits:

- Thickening Agent: Helps achieve the desired consistency of the sauce.

Fresh Cilantro or Green Onions (for garnish)

- Cilantro: Calories: 23, Carbohydrates: 3 grams, Protein: 2 grams, Fat: 0.5 grams

- Green Onions: Calories: 32, Carbohydrates: 7 grams, Protein: 1.8 grams, Fat: 0.2 grams

Benefits:

- Cilantro: Provides antioxidants and vitamins A and C. Adds a fresh flavor.

- Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and provides vitamins A, C, and K.

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and healthful dish with a mix of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet elements, complemented by various health benefits.