Mie aceh
Mie Aceh is a bold and aromatic noodle dish originating from Aceh, the northernmost province of Sumatra, Indonesia, where the culinary landscape is deeply influenced by the region’s historical role as a trading hub, blending Indian, Arab, and Chinese flavors into a uniquely rich and spicy dish.
This beloved specialty is made with thick yellow wheat noodles that are stir-fried or served in a deeply spiced, curry-like broth infused with an intense blend of garlic, shallots, chili, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and curry powder, creating a dish that is both fiery and deeply fragrant.
Typically, Mie Aceh is enriched with an array of proteins such as beef, goat, shrimp, or crab, accompanied by fresh vegetables like cabbage, tomatoes, and bean sprouts, which add texture and a slight sweetness to balance the heat of the spice mix.
The dish is prepared in three main variations, with Mie Aceh Goreng offering a dry stir-fried version where the noodles are coated in a thick, spicy sauce, Mie Aceh Tumis presenting a slightly wetter consistency with a small amount of gravy clinging to the noodles, and Mie Aceh Kuah, a heartier soupy version that bathes the noodles in a rich and flavorful broth. Read more
Regardless of its preparation style, Mie Aceh is traditionally served hot with a final touch of garnishes that enhance its complexity, including crispy fried shallots for a savory crunch, emping crackers for a light bitterness that contrasts the spices, fresh cucumber slices for a refreshing bite, and a squeeze of lime that brightens the dish with a hint of acidity.
Known for its intense heat and robust flavors, Mie Aceh is a popular street food staple across Indonesia, served from warungs and roadside stalls where it is prepared fresh to order in large woks over high heat, ensuring the perfect sear and depth of flavor.
WHERE TO EAT The best Mie aceh in the world (according to food experts)
"The best place in Banda Aceh to sample mie aceh, Acehnese spicy noodles served with chicken or seafood."
"Served with chopped leeks and crab meat, the dish delivers the perfect balance between savoury and spicy. The fresh crab meat lends a sweet taste to the gravy, which prompted us to finish the whole plate despite our near-full tummies. Clearly our decision to check out Mie Ayah turned out to be a success."
"We ordered several types of Mie aceh which are typical of the restaurant. Delicious!"
"My favorite restaurant for this dish in Jakarta is the famous Seulawah. Small and very unpretentious, but they make such mouthwatering dishes, sluurrp!"
"Mie Aceh Bang Iwan – One of the best places to try Mie Aceh (a noodle dish from Aceh). Stays open until 2 am."
"From their premium noodles, I like their fried Mie Aceh the best. Perfect for those who like super spicy food."
"Their special fried Mie aceh comes with tiny pieces of mutton, it's extraordinary! Very delicious plate of noodles, not too heavy, perfect amount of seasoning."
"Chose your fried or boiled Mie Aceh, both versions are real champions."
"4 of the most delicious Mie Aceh shops in Banda Aceh: Mie Midi Peuniti - The name Midi Peuniti is synonymous for the famous thick brown sauce. It's up to you if you want it with beef or seafood. At this place, even vegetarians can enjoy these noodles, since they have a version made with mushrooms."
