Bua Loi Khai Waan (บัวลอยไข่หวาน) : A Sweet Thai Dessert with Floating Lotus and Eggs

Bua Loi Khai Waan (บัวลอยไข่หวาน)

A Sweet Thai Dessert with Floating Lotus and Eggs

Bua Loi Khai Waan (บัวลอยไข่หวาน) is a classic Thai dessert that combines soft, chewy rice flour dumplings with a sweetened coconut milk broth and a poached egg. Translating to "floating lotus with sweet eggs," this dessert is not only delicious but also carries a comforting warmth, making it a favorite treat for many Thais.

Bua Loi Sai Khai

What is Bua Loi Khai Waan?

        Bua Loi (บัวลอย) : Small, colorful rice flour balls, often tinted with natural dyes from pandan leaves (green), butterfly pea flowers (blue) or pumpkin (yellow). These "lotuses" are cooked until they float, giving the dessert its name.

        Khai Waan (ไข่หวาน) : A poached egg, gently cooked in the sweet coconut milk, adding richness to the dish.

        Sweet Coconut Milk Broth : The base is made from coconut milk, sugar and a pinch of salt for balance, resulting in a creamy and fragrant soup.

Why is Bua Loi Khai Waan Special?

        Perfect Texture: The soft, chewy dumplings and creamy poached egg create a delightful contrast.

        Balanced Sweetness: The coconut milk broth offers a sweet, slightly salty flavor that’s comforting and indulgent.

        Colorful Presentation: The vibrant rice balls make it visually appealing and festive.

How to Make Bua Loi Khai Waan

        1. Prepare the Rice Balls : Mix glutinous rice flour with water and natural colorings to form dough. Roll into small balls and boil until they float.

        2. Cook the Coconut Milk : Simmer coconut milk with sugar and a pinch of salt for a rich and balanced flavor.

        3. Poach the Egg : Crack an egg into the simmering coconut milk and let it cook gently.

        4. Assemble : Combine the rice balls, coconut milk, and poached egg in a bowl, and serve warm.

Bua Loi

Variations of Bua Loi Khai Waan

        No Egg : A simpler version, just the rice balls in sweet coconut milk (Bua Loi).
        

        Modern Twists : Some variations add taro or pandan jelly for extra flavor and texture.

        Healthier Options : Made with low-sugar coconut milk or alternative sweeteners.

Order Phrases

        "Ao Bua Loi Neung Tee krub/ka" (เอาบัวลอย 1 ที่) - “One order of Bua Loi, please”

        “Ao Bua Loi Sai Khai Neung Ti krub/ka” (เอาบัวลอยใส่ไข่ 1 ที่) - “One order of Bua Loi with a poached egg, please.”

        "Ao Bua Loi Neung Toong krub/ka" (เอาบัวลอย 1 ถุง) - “One order of Bua Loi to-go, please”

        “Ao Bua Loi Sai Khai Neung Toong krub/ka” (เอาบัวลอยใส่ไข่ 1 ถุง) - “One order of Bua Loi with a poached egg to-go, please.”