Thailand isn’t just a land of stunning temples, golden beaches and bustling markets - it’s also a foodie paradise! Thai cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its vibrant flavours, balancing sweet, sour, salty and spicy in perfect harmony. From street food delights to traditional home-cooked meals, every dish tells a story of culture and culinary artistry. Here’s a guide to the top Thai dishes you simply can’t miss on your next adventure to the “Land of Smiles”.
7 Must-Try Dishes in Thailand:
1. Pad Thai (Stir Fried Noodles)
Pad Thai is a quintessential Thai dish and a global favourite. These stir-fried rice noodles are tossed with tamarind sauce, eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts and a sprinkling of crushed peanuts. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that captures the essence of Thailand’s street food culture. Whether enjoyed at a bustling market or a beachside restaurant, it’s a must-try for any food lover.
2. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
Tom Yum Goong is a flavour explosion in a bowl. This iconic soup combines fragrant lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal and chilli with succulent shrimp and mushrooms in a tangy broth. Street vendors and popular night markets in Bangkok often serve this dish fresh and steaming hot. The balance of spicy and sour notes makes it a true Thai classic that warms both the heart and soul.
3. Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad)
Green Papaya Salad or Som Tam, is a refreshing dish that’s as vibrant as Thailand itself. Made with shredded unripe papaya, cherry tomatoes, crunchy beans, peanuts, dried shrimp and crab, this salad delivers a burst of flavour with every bite. It’s a staple in Thailand’s street food scene and a perfect choice for those craving something light yet satisfying.
4. Massaman Curry
Massaman curry is a rich and creamy dish that showcases Thailand’s diverse culinary influences. Infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon and cardamom, it’s made with tender meat, potatoes and peanuts in a coconut milk base. This dish is perfect for those who prefer a milder curry, offering a comforting and indulgent experience.
5. Khao Niew Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice)
No trip to Thailand is complete without sampling Mango Sticky Rice. This sweet treat features glutinous rice soaked in coconut milk, served with fresh mango slices and a drizzle of syrup. You’ll find it at popular night markets and street food stalls across the country, making it an easy and delicious dessert option.
6. Khao Soi (Northern Thai Noodle Curry)
A specialty of Northern Thailand, Khao Soi is a creamy and aromatic noodle curry with Burmese influences. The dish features soft egg noodles in a coconut milk-based curry broth, topped with crispy fried noodles, pickled mustard greens and lime. Perfect for adventurous eaters, it’s a must-try when exploring Chiang Mai.
7. Thai Green Curry
Thai Green Curry is a fragrant and spicy dish that captures the heart of Thai cooking. Made with green curry paste, coconut milk and a medley of vegetables or meat, it’s a vibrant dish best enjoyed with jasmine rice. The balance of sweetness and heat makes it a crowd-pleaser and a staple in Thailand’s culinary repertoire.
Thailand’s diverse cuisine is a feast for the senses! Expect lots of chillies, fish sauce, basil, curry paste, shrimp paste, coconut milk, garlic and rice, among other flavours! A gentle reminder - if you’re a novice in Thai spicy food, always ask for the mildest option to test it out first. The level of spiciness in Thailand is scaled differently compared to what you may get at home.
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