Tag: Laphet thoke

Consumed for centuries in Myanmar, fermented tea leaves (lahpet) form the basis of the popular and flavorful national dish known as Laphet Thoke. But beyond its unique taste, many people question: is Laphet Thoke healthy, or does its preparation make it less than nutritious?

Many people are surprised to learn that this delicious Burmese dish packs a notable punch, with some sources comparing its stimulating effect to coffee. So, does laphet have caffeine? The definitive answer is yes, and it is a key reason for the salad's energizing reputation in Myanmar.

According to Burmese students, eating laphet thoke, the country's national delicacy, is a tradition to help them stay up late studying. This is because Burmese tea leaf salad is indeed caffeinated, deriving its stimulating properties from the fermented tea leaves that form its unique, earthy base.