Kalar Hin (Burmese Gourd, Potato, Drumstick/Green Bean & Yellow Lentil Sour Soup) – Authentic Myanmar Recipe

Ingredients for Kalar Hin (Burmese Gourd, Potato, Drumstick/Green Bean & Yellow Lentil Sour Soup) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) split yellow lentils, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups cubed bottle gourd/zucchini, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup potatoes
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with tamarind pulp
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Myanmar seasoning (turmeric, shallots, garlic, cumin pinch)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and tamarind pulp for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in turmeric, shallots, garlic, cumin pinch and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Myanmar's kitchen.
3. Add split yellow lentils and cubed bottle gourd/zucchini, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in potatoes, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.