10 Best Dishes To Eat in Thailand
When it comes to delicious cuisine, Thailand is a destination you should not miss. From the famous Pad Thai to Gai Pad Krapow, there are a myriad of dishes to try. Here are 10 of the best dishes to eat in Thailand that you should not miss! Pad Thai, Som Tam, Khao Soi, Tom Yum Goong, Khao Pad, Khanom Buang, Gai Pad Med Ma Muang, Tom Kha Gai, Gai Pad Krapow, and Kao Niew Ma Muang are all on the list.
Whether you’re looking for something spicy, sweet, or savory, Thailand has something to offer. Get ready to explore the diverse flavors and tantalizing textures of these delicious dishes.
Table of Contents
Pad Thai: Thailand’s National Dish
Pad Thai is one of Thailand’s most beloved dishes and is known as the country’s national dish. Originating in the mid-20th century, this savory noodle dish has become a staple of Thai cuisine all around the world. The dish consists of stir-fried rice noodles with a mix of eggs, tofu, and a variety of vegetables, all tossed together with a sweet and tangy sauce. Pad Thai is usually served with a side of crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and bean sprouts, adding a burst of flavor and texture to each bite. This flavor-packed dish is a must-try for any visitor to Thailand, as it perfectly embodies the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Som Tam: Spicy Green Papaya Salad
Som tam, or Thai spicy green papaya salad, is a popular dish in Thailand and a staple of the Thai cuisine. It is a simple but flavorful dish consisting of shredded unripe papaya, chilies, garlic, fish sauce, peanuts, sugar, and lime juice. The ingredients are pounded together in a mortar and pestle to bring out their flavors and make a spicy, sweet, and sour salad. Som tam is often served with sticky rice, grilled meats, or other dishes as a side. This dish is light yet full of flavor and a great way to add a bit of spice to any meal.
Khao Soi: A Traditional Northern Thai Curry
Khao Soi is a traditional Northern Thai curry that is known for its savory and spicy flavor. The dish consists of soft and crunchy noodles in a rich and creamy broth. It is made with a combination of coconut milk, curry paste, and fish sauce, which give it a unique flavor profile. Khao Soi is often served with pickled mustard greens, lime wedges, and shallots for added flavor. This delicious dish is a staple in Thai cuisine, and has become a popular dish around the world. If you’re looking to try a unique and flavorful dish, give Khao Soi a try!
Tom Yum Goong: A Refreshing Spicy Soup
Tom Yum Goong is a traditional dish from Thailand that is both a feast for the eyes and a delight for the palate. This deliciously spicy soup is a refreshing combination of flavors that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The base of the soup is a flavorful broth made of lemongrass, galangal, lime leaves, chilies, and other ingredients. To this, shrimp, mushrooms, and other vegetables can be added. The result is a savory and spicy soup that is sure to leave you wanting more. Tom Yum Goong is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious Thai culinary experience.
Khao Pad: Fried Rice with Seafood and Vegetables
Khao Pad, a popular Thai dish, is a flavorful fried rice that is packed with a variety of ingredients. The main ingredients are seafood and vegetables, such as shrimp, squid, carrots, and green peppers. The rice is first cooked in a wok with oil and garlic, before being combined with the other ingredients. The dish is often topped with a variety of sauces, such as fish sauce, chili sauce, and lime juice, adding a delicious kick of flavor. Khao Pad is a delicious and filling meal that is sure to please the whole family.
Khanom Buang: Sweet Thai Crepes
Khanom Buang is a traditional sweet Thai dessert that is popular in both Thailand and other parts of the world. It is a type of crepe made from wheat flour and filled with a sweet mixture of coconut, eggs, and sugar. The thin crepe is then rolled up and served either plain or with toppings such as shredded coconut, peanuts, or palm sugar syrup. Khanom Buang is an integral part of Thai culture and can be found in almost any market or street vendor in Thailand. This delicious dessert is known for its light and fluffy texture, sweet flavor, and delectable aroma. Whether you’re in Thailand or not, Khanom Buang is a treat that you won’t want to miss!
Gai Pad Med Ma Muang: Chicken with Cashew Nuts
Gai Pad Med Ma Muang is a popular dish from Thailand that is made with chicken and cashew nuts. The main ingredients are chicken, cashew nuts, onions, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, sugar, and chili peppers. It is a flavorful dish that has a hint of sweetness and spice, making it a favorite of many. The cashew nuts provide a crunchy texture and the dish is usually served with steamed jasmine rice. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or as a comforting meal.
Tom Kha Gai: Coconut Chicken Soup
Tom Kha Gai is a traditional coconut chicken soup dish from Thailand. This soup is made with chicken broth and simmered with coconut milk, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves and mushrooms. Tom Kha Gai has a savory and slightly sweet flavor, making it a favorite among Thai cuisine enthusiasts. The dish is typically served with steamed jasmine rice and garnished with fresh cilantro. Whether you’re looking for a delicious and comforting soup or an adventurous foray into Thai cuisine, Tom Kha Gai is sure to satisfy.
Gai Pad Krapow: Stir-Fried Chicken with Basil
Gai Pad Krapow is a popular Thai dish consisting of stir-fried chicken with basil. It is a fragrant, flavorful dish that is beloved by many. The dish consists of chicken, garlic, chilies, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and of course, fresh basil. The ingredients are stir-fried over high heat to bring out the flavors of the various ingredients. The result is a savory, aromatic dish that can be served with steamed rice. Gai Pad Krapow is a simple, yet delicious dish that is sure to please any palate.
Kao Niew Ma Muang: Sweet Mango Sticky Rice
Kao Niew Ma Muang, or Sweet Mango Sticky Rice, is a beloved Thai dessert. It is made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and ripe mangoes that are peeled, pitted, and served atop the sweet and fragrant rice. The combination of the chewy sticky rice and the juicy mangoes is a heavenly combination that is irresistible. This dessert is usually served as a snack or after a meal in Thailand, and it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Kao Niew Ma Muang is a must-try traditional dish when visiting Thailand, and is sure to make any occasion a sweet one!
Thailand is a country with a deep and rich culture, as evidenced by its wide array of delicious dishes. From Pad Thai to Gai Pad Krapow, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The ten dishes featured here are just the tip of the culinary iceberg that is Thai cuisine. Whether you’re looking for something spicy, savory, or sweet, Thailand has something for you. So what are you waiting for? Get out and give some of these incredible dishes a try.
