Thai cuisine offers many mouth-watering Thai foods you will love enjoying. Thai dishes often have a unique flavor that you can hardly find in other places. The spicy taste of recipes will make you unforgettable.
I will bring a list of typical and outstanding Thai recipes that you can refer to for your upcoming trip to Thailand. Therefore, save the list to taste all these famous dishes when you set foot there.
Brief Overview Of Thai Cuisine
Thai cuisine is a vibrant and diverse culinary tradition that has evolved over centuries in Thailand, influenced by its neighboring countries like China, India, and Malaysia.
Known for its distinctive flavors, Thai food artfully balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy tastes, creating a harmonious dining experience. Fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and a variety of sauces and condiments play a pivotal role in achieving these flavors.
Thai cuisine is also characterized by its use of fresh ingredients, including an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like chicken, pork, beef, and seafood.
Importance Of Thai Cuisine In Global Culinary Culture
In recent decades, Thai cuisine has gained significant popularity across the globe, owing to its unique flavors, appealing presentation, and healthful ingredients.
As a result, Thai cuisine has made a substantial impact on global culinary culture, inspiring new fusion dishes and adaptations, and contributing to the growing appreciation for diverse international flavors.
Thai cuisine’s emphasis on fresh ingredients and balanced flavors has also resonated with the modern preference for healthier, well-rounded meals, further solidifying its importance in the global culinary scene.
Soup And Curry Dishes
Thai dishes are very diverse in taste and preparation. They are especially famous for their soups and curries with rich flavor and characteristic spicy taste that you can only find in this magnificent cuisine. Therefore, do not forget to take the time to eat the dishes below.
1. Guay Teow – Noodle Soup
It is a pity not to enjoy Guay teow during your exploration of Thailand. This iconic Thai dish, found in every corner of the country, is a delightful noodle soup featuring a flavorful broth, noodles, and a variety of meats.
You can choose between two kinds of Thai noodles: egg noodles or rice noodles, depending on your preference. In particular, the meatballs that vendors put in the broth make it sweet and rich. Put some lemon juice, fish sauce, and chili in the bowl to enjoy right away.
This is a food that originated in China and was brought to Thailand by a Chinese merchant during the Ayutthaya era and became a famous dish here.
2. Panang – Thai Curry
Panang is a wonderful curry recipe first created by people in central Thailand. Gradually, it became popular and loved all over Thailand. This recipe is said to have appeared since 1890 with the name phanaeng.
Panang is a perfect addition to your Thai dinner recipes. The name panang is derived from the name of an island on the West coast of Malaysia, which is Penang. It is a traditional curry that many tourists want to enjoy when coming to Thailand.
Unlike other Thai curries, the taste of panang is a little lighter, and the spiciness is moderate enough for everyone to taste. This curry has a distinctive red color to distinguish it from other curries. It is often eaten with shrimp and vegetables.
3. Tom Yum Goong – Spicy Shrimp Soup
Hailing from Thailand, this soup is often referred to as Tom Yam and traditionally features shrimp in a zesty, tangy concoction.
The term Tom Yam encapsulates the essence of this dish, with “Tom” signifying “boiling” or “hot” and “Yam” denoting its “spicy and sour” characteristics, which together paint a vivid picture of this tantalizing soup.
When you come to Thai Square, you will notice many stalls selling delicious Tom Yum Goong. It is good to order a bowl and enjoy the essence of Thai cuisine right away. Before its taste hits you, you will not be able to sit still with its attractive look.
Its rich flavor and enticing aroma will excite all your senses. This recipe will clearly show the typical spicy taste of Thai cuisine. In addition to shrimp, you will feel the aroma of lemongrass and the rich flavor of coconut cream, mushrooms, and fresh prawns.
Not much is known exactly about the emergence and development of this wonderful dish. However, many people believe that this dish was first made in the Chao Phraya River region of Central Thailand.
Let’s take a trip to Thailand to taste the delicious Tom Yum Goong.
4. Tom Kha Gai – Chicken In Coconut Soup
Tom Kha Gai, or Tom Kha Kai is considered a national dish in Thailand. It is common in Northern Thailand and is inspired by Latian cuisine. The combination of chicken and coconut milk makes this recipe rich and creamy.
Originating around 1890, Tom kha is a traditional Thai soup initially documented as Tom kha pet, featuring duck and young galangal in a coconut milk curry. As chicken gained popularity, the dish transformed into Tom kha kai, while Tom kha kung highlights shrimp as the protein.
Although Tom kha shares many foundational ingredients with another famed Thai soup, Tom yam, it is distinguished by its creamy consistency and milder, sweeter flavor thanks to the inclusion of coconut milk.
Coconut milk plays an essential role in Southeast Asian cuisine, and I am sure you will fall in love with its incredible taste. When compared to other Thai delicacies, its spiciness is subtle, so even those who are not good with spicy food can enjoy it.
Learn the ways to make delicious Tom Kha Gai at home.
5. Kaeng Kari – Yellow Curry
As one of the three primary Thai curries found in Western Thai eateries, Thai yellow curry boasts a milder and less oily profile compared to its counterparts.
Drawing inspiration from British naval cuisine, it blends traditional curry paste with curry powder and may incorporate a sweetening agent based on the sweetness of the coconut milk used.
While commonly paired with chicken, beef, and starchy vegetables, variations include duck, tofu, shrimp, fish, and vegetables.
Enjoyed alongside steamed rice or khanom chin, round rice noodles, this dish is known as kaeng lueang or “yellow curry” in Thai. In the southern regions, it is called kaeng som or “sour curry,” where it exhibits a lighter hue and a zestier, more pronounced flavor.
Thanks to the low amount of chili, yellow curry will not taste too spicy. You can easily find this dish in restaurants in Western Thailand.
It is a combination of Indian curry powder and traditional Thai curry paste to create a unique color and flavor. Unlike other curries, turmeric is added to the curry to make it yellow. Moreover, you will feel the flavor of coconut milk when you taste it.
6. Gaeng Keow Wan – Green Curry
Among Thai dishes, green curry is one of the spiciest. It originates from central Thailand with unique processing and flavor. Deriving its name from the distinctive creamy pale green color imparted by green chilies, green curry is a Thai curry made with coconut milk.
The term “sweet” in the Thai name refers to the particular shade of green, not the flavor profile. Its name “Green curry” is inspired by the color of green chilies added to this food. In Thai, the word “wan” means “sweet”, so you will feel a slight sweetness when eating it.
With no strict ingredient list, green curry’s taste may not be sweeter than other Thai curries, but it generally exhibits a more pungent spiciness compared to milder red curries.
The dish’s development traces back to the reigns of King Rama VI or Rama VII, between 1908 and 1926.
The presence of lemongrass, coriander, galangal, zest, and chili makes the flavor of the food intense and robust. If you like spicy food, this dish is definitely a must-try.
7. Khao Soi – Coconut Curry Noodle Soup
Khao Soi is a dish you should try when visiting Northern Thailand. This dish got its inspiration from a signature dish from Burmese cuisine – coconut curry. It was first brought to Chiang Mai by the Chinese in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The flavorful and enchanting taste of coconut milk deserves a 100 mark. The chewy and tender egg noodles will make you want to enjoy this excellent Thai soup again. You should eat it with red onions, salted cabbage, and lemons for extra flavor.
8. Massaman Curry – Chicken Massaman With Potato
Another scrumptious Thai lunch recipe you should try is massaman curry. This is a traditional Thai chicken dish associated with the memories of many Thai people. They say that Muslims from Malaysia strongly influenced it, and it was invented in the 17th century.
A delightful fusion of flavors, massaman curry combines ingredients from Persia, the Indian Subcontinent, and the Malay Archipelago with traditional Thai elements to create a distinctive curry paste.
The dish typically comprises chicken or other meats, potatoes, onions, and peanuts, with its delectable richness derived from a base of coconut milk and cream. In 2011, CNNGo named massaman curry the world’s tastiest food, a title it retained in their 2018 update, while a reader’s survey ranked it at number ten.
The spices blend perfectly to make a harmonious whole. You will feel the typical flavors of cumin, cloves, and cinnamon when sipping a spoonful of the broth. Chicken, potatoes, and coconut milk make a perfect dish in terms of look and taste.
It is time to enjoy the excellent flavor of Massaman curry in Thailand.
9. Tom Klong – Spicy and Sour Soup
Tom Khlong is a captivating Thai soup that’s sure to awaken your senses! This sour and spicy masterpiece, brimming with smoked dried fish and a medley of aromatic herbs, is a traditional Thai favorite.
Similar to its cousin, Tom Yum, Tom Khlong is set apart by the inclusion of roasted or dried herbs, adding a unique depth of flavor. Known by its ancient Thai name, Tom Hok Ue, this soup elicits a refreshing sensation with each invigorating sip.
Key ingredients like dried fish, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves work in harmony to neutralize any fishy aroma, while tamarind juice, lemongrass, shallots, and Thai chili peppers bring a burst of flavor to every spoonful. Looking for an extra kick? Add a dash of paprika to elevate the spice!
Tom Khlong’s versatility allows for additional ingredients such as lime juice, tomatoes, basil, and parsley, enriching its flavor profile and texture.
Typical Salads Menu
Salads play an essential role in making Thai cuisine widely known in many countries. Thai recipes for appetizers always need one or two salads at a party. The ingredients and flavors of them always leave an impression in diners’ minds.
10. Som Tam – Spicy Green Papaya Salad
It would be a real pity if you did not enjoy the famous Som Tam in Thailand when coming here. When leaving Thailand, I firmly believe that most people want to come back to taste this dish again. It comes from the Lao-Chinese ethnic minority.
The taste of Som Tam will be best when you enjoy it in Isaan in Northeastern Thailand since this is where it came from. There are different versions, but the most popular one contains a lovely Thai fruit: green papaya.
The crispness and natural flavor of green papaya blend with carrots, tomatoes, dried shrimp, and many other seasonings, thanks to the artisan’s professional and hand mixing skill to create a unique and stimulating taste.
Check out the instructions to create a fantastic Som Tam.
11. Yam Talay – Spicy Seafood Salad
When traveling to the Land of white elephants, Yam Talay is food that tourists want to eat. Besides the exceptional taste, it is also a healthy food as it brings many nutritional values to the body. A miniature seafood feast appears on this salad plate with squid, shrimp, crabmeat, mussels, and scallops.
Onions, rice noodles, and tomatoes added to the recipe will upgrade the flavor of the dish. When chewing Yam Talay, the seafood and accompanying components blend, and you will feel the distinctive taste of fish sauce in this food.
There are 4 different salad preparation methods in Thai cuisine, including yam, tam, lap, and phla. You can find several different yam salad variations besides yam talay, like yam thai, yam kung ten, yam salat, and more.
12. Yam Pla Dook Foo – Catfish And Green Mango Salad
I will use two words to talk about this beautiful dish, “crunchy” and “fluffy”. This is a perfect combination when fried catfish is served with green mango salad. Both, when eaten simultaneously, will bring a unique and irresistible taste.
Take a bite of fluffy fried catfish and a chopstick of crispy green mango salad to feel the sour, spicy, and sweet flavors dancing inside your mouth. This food is often used as an appetizer at Thai parties or served with beer.
Born in Central Thailand, this food is considered a typical dish of the Essan people. Thai usually serve it as Gap Glaem or with rice.
Get the tutorials to make the incredible catfish and green mango salad.
13. Yum Nua – Beef Salad
You should immediately enjoy Yum Nua if you’re a fan of tender beef. You will be fascinated with the characteristic spicy flavor of this savory salad. Thinly sliced beef tenderloin offers just the right amount of softness. This salad always appears on Kalaya menus.
The beef is mixed with various ingredients to create a flavorsome dish. A little salty and sour flavors from fish sauce and lime juice contribute to a rich salad recipe imbued with Thai cuisine and culture.
14. Laab – Spicy Salad
One of the salads that leave a lot of impressions on diners is laab. It came from Isaan province, located in Northeastern Thailand, bordering Laos and Cambodia. The combination of meat and mushroom makes a wonderful recipe.
You can find chicken or pork on laab plates. The highlight of the food comes from its intense spicy taste. Therefore, it is a suitable choice for fans of spicy food to stimulate their taste buds.
What if you can’t handle spicy food very well? I’d still recommend that you try out this dish. Just pair this with some refreshing Thai beverages to dispel the heat. It’d be unfortunate if you don’t get to taste this amazing Thai dish.
15. Nam Tok – Grilled Beef Waterfall Salad
Feast your eyes on Nam Tok, the Thai Grilled Beef Waterfall Salad that’s making waves in Northeast Thailand!
This dish features marinated grilled steak, cooked to perfection and served rare over a bed of herb-infused salad. The crowning glory? A dusting of dry toasted ground rice powder to seal the deal.
Nam Tok, which translates to “falling water” or “waterfall,” is a nod to the succulent juices dripping from the meat. You may even spot it as “waterfall salad” on some menus.
Sharing a similar flavor profile with the popular Thai laab minced meat salad, Nam Tok takes it up a notch with smoky grilled steak strips lavished in a delectable Thai dressing.
This dish promises a light, satisfying meal that’s high in protein and low in carbs, making it perfect for a nutritious and irresistibly scrumptious dinner.
Thai Foods For Rice Fanatics
Rice is a popular food in Southeast Asian countries, and so is Thailand. There are many traditional Thai dishes with the main ingredient being rice that you should eat. Please save the list below and enjoy them.
16. Khao Niao – Sticky Rice
Khao Niao is a famous traditional dish in Thailand, with the main element being sticky rice. This is a primary food that appears in every meal of the people in the Isan region in Northeastern Thailand. It was created by the Portuguese during the Ayutthaya period.
Sticky rice is also a prominent dish in Vietnamese cuisine. In this country, the locals usually eat sticky rice with peanuts. Another equally famous variation is sticky rice with ham, pork floss, fried onions, and quail eggs. Moreover, the dish is a famous street treat in Lao.
It can be present in the list of Thai lunch recipes or go well with appetizers or desserts in Thai meals. The softness and flexibility of the pure and fragrant white rice grains will captivate you immediately.
17. Pad Kra Pao – Thai Holy Basil Stir Fry
This wonderful recipe was first prepared 40 years ago, and the basil used in this dish was discovered between 2450 and 2500 BC. This food is an indispensable part of Thai cuisine.
Thais have delicately combined rice, meat, and eggs to make an excellent plate of rice for dinner. Minced chicken or pork is stewed for a long time to infuse the spice. All flavors will create an excellent symphony of flavors.
When enjoying it, you will drizzle a few teaspoons of sweet and sour fish sauce over the meat, white rice, and fried eggs to make the food more flavorful. The typical and irresistible taste of basil will make it hard for you to forget this appealing dish.
It is a great experience to enjoy Pad Kra Pao in Bangkok.
18. Khao Pad – Fried Rice
Instead of eating white rice with other foods, Thai people fry rice with various meat, eggs, and vegetables to make a fabulous Thai breakfast recipe. Thais call it Khao Pad. It will be perfect to start a new day full of energy in Thailand.
The rice and ingredients are fried together and seasoned with fish sauce and soy sauce to bring a rich flavor to each grain of rice. Khao Pad Sapparod is a famous version where rice is enjoyed with sweet pineapple.
Khao Pad was invented by the Thais in the Northern province of Chiang Mai a long time ago and has become a symbolic food of this area. You can choose from many various variations of it to eat like pork fried rice, seafood fried rice, chicken fried rice, and others.
Let’s go to the kitchen to make a yummy khao pad for your breakfast.
19. Khao Kha Moo – Pork-Leg Rice
When you have the chance to stroll the streets of Chiang Mai, you should stop by a stall to enjoy traditional Thai Khao Kha Moo. A plate filled with rice, chunks of pork, and boiled eggs will give you an instant energy boost.
The rich flavor and gentle sweetness of pork leg cooked in broth with various spices will make it hard for you to stop eating. The freshly boiled eggs will blend with the soft rice grains and delicious pieces of meat that leave you wanting more.
Chinese cuisine has a profound influence on this food. In Thailand, you can enjoy khao kha moo at Bang Wa, Mo Mi, Sam Yan, and Phlapphla restaurants to get the best taste.
20. Khao Niaow Ma Muang – Thai Mango Sticky Rice
The list of must-try desserts when coming to Thailand have to include Kao Niaow Ma Muang. This is a traditional food with a combination of mango and sticky rice. As strange as it sounds, its flavors will surprise you.
Sticky rice is soft and fragrant and will melt in your mouth. An indescribable feeling will appear when you bite into a slice of fresh sweet and sour mango. Not only that, the sweetness of condensed milk is the factor that will knock you down.
There is no exact information about the origin of this wonderful dessert. This street food also appears in the Philippines and Laos. In particular, the Filipino version is served with hot chocolate to give it a special flavor.
Thai mango and sticky rice is fantastic dessert you should not ignore.
21. Khao Kluk Kapi – Rice Tossed With Shrimp Paste
Referring to the famous rice dishes of Thailand, you should not skip Khao Kluk Kapi. Thanks to its excellent taste, this is a popular food loved by almost all Thai people. It first appeared in Central Thailand and is a variation of a Mon dish during the reign of Rama King II.
You will get to eat rich, soft, and fragrant rice grains that are sauteed with shrimp paste. Besides, the dish provides many nutrients for you with the omelet, pork, sausage, and dried shrimp. The recipe looks more eye-catching with decorative vegetables.
Understand the delicious flavor of Thai Khao Kluk Kapi through some reviews.
22. Khao Mok Gai – Fried Rice And Chicken
Originally consumed primarily by the Muslim-Thai community, khao mok gai (chicken buried in rice) is a Halal meal with roots tracing back to Persian traders who brought it to Thailand hundreds of years ago.
Interestingly, this dish is the Thai adaptation of chicken biryani, with its first recorded appearance in an 18th-century Thai literary classic.
Khao Mok Gai is a renowned classic Thai dish, frequently referred to as the Thai version of Biryani. Let’s find and eat it when you are on your travels to Thailand.
Its bright yellow color will captivate you at first sight. The rice grains are cooked with turmeric, meat, and many spices to give them distinctive color, flavor, and aroma. The food is a combination of Thai and Indian spices.
23. Jok – Thai Congee
Within Thai culinary traditions, rice congee is referred to as Chok or Jok. This popular breakfast dish is frequently accompanied by a raw or lightly cooked egg.
Thai people eating jok for breakfast is a familiar image in Thailand. This dish contains many nutrients for the body, so it is the most effective way for you to recharge before starting a long working day.
The secret of this food lies in the broth made from minced pork, chives, and various spices. You should enjoy a hot and mouth-watering bowl of jok in the morning to feel its peak flavors right now.
This recipe comes from Chinese cuisine. It is pretty famous all over Asia with many variations. Taiwanese porridge usually has ground pork, eggs, and vegetables. Meanwhile, the Japanese often eat congee with toppings, such as salmon, ginger, and onions.
Thai Foods On Streets
Street food is a feature of Thai cuisine. There are many great dishes that you can only find on the streets of Thailand. Here are the famous street foods you need to know to try while exploring this beautiful South East Asian country.
24. Pad See Ew – Soy Sauce Noodles
Your day in Thailand will be complete when enjoying the wonderful flavors of Pad See Ew. It is a recipe derived from Chinese cuisine. This recipe is pretty popular, so you can easily find it on some food streets in Thailand.
The chewy and tender rice noodles stir-fried with vegetables and meat will mesmerize you right away. Soy sauce is added to the dish giving it a distinctive flavor. You should add some lime juice and chili flakes to enhance their taste when eating them.
25. Malang Tod – Fried Insects
Thailand has many unique and quirky dishes, and Malang tod fried insects are one of them. You will immediately think of Thailand when it comes to this wonderful dish with authentic Thai cuisine.
They are pretty standard on the streets of Bangkok, especially in Khao San. Insects, such as grasshoppers, bees, or worms, are fried with fish sauce and other seasonings until crispy. It is nice to sip a few glasses of wine with fried insects on the street.
26. Gai Yang – Grilled Chicken
The golden and fragrant grilled chicken pieces will attract you immediately. It comes from Isaan province in Northeastern Thailand. There are various refreshing Thai beverages to pair with a plate of Gai Yang, especially in the Isaan region.
The chicken is grilled evenly on both sides and still retains the tenderness and moisture in each fiber. The oldest stalls in Thailand always bring Gai Yang with the highest quality and flavor.
27. Pad Thai – Stir-Fried Rice Noodles
Pad Thai, also known as phad thai or phat thai, is a typical Thai food. It had a long history when it was first made in 1938. It was initially called Guay Teow Pad Thai, and the word Guay Teow ”in Chinese means “rice noodles”. The dish is also partly influenced by Chinese cuisine.
While you can say that Chinese cuisine has influenced Thai cuisine quite a lot, there’s no denying that there are many clear distinctions between Chinese foods and Thai foods. So don’t make the mistake of thinking Thai foods are the same as Chinese foods.
It is loved by a lot of tourists when visiting Thailand. You will never forget the sweet and savory taste of this recipe. The rice noodles are tossed with eggs, bean sprouts, and peanuts to create a perfect whole.
Shrimp and meat are often added for extra flavor at street food vendors. You can also find vegetarian versions of this Thai dish with tofu. It is sold on every street across Thailand.
Learn some information about the history of the famous pad Thai.
28. Moo Satay – Peanut And Pork Satay
Satay is a barbecue recipe that originated in Java, Indonesia, in the early 15th century when the Indonesians adapted it from the Indian grilled meat. Gradually, it spread to many Southeast Asian countries, such as the cuisine of Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and so on.
I think the amount of Moo Satay at the stalls will not be enough to satisfy your eating needs because it is too delicious. After each Moo Satay stick, your taste buds seem to be stimulated to create the feeling of wanting to eat more.
The pork slices are carefully seasoned with coconut milk when grilled over charcoal, making your mouth water. You should dip this hot meat into peanut sauce and serve it with a cucumber salad to grab all the taste.
29. Poh Pia Tod – Fried Spring Roll
Poh Pia Tod is a famous snack sold on the streets of Thailand. It comes from Fujian in China originally. Its crispness and enticing flavor will satisfy your craving for iconic street food in Thailand. Here, Poh Pia Tod will be rolled in bite-sized pieces, and you will use a toothpick to eat them.
When you dip a piece into the sweet chili sauce and bite into it, all the culinary goodness will melt inside your mouth. When marinated, vegetables, rice noodles, and minced meats will absorb the seasoning. You will want to eat more of it before leaving Thailand.
Despite their similar appearance, spring roll and egg rolls have many dissimilarities. So it’s best not to confuse between these two signature Asian dishes, especially if you want to avoid ordering the wrong dish.
Make mouth-watering Poh Pia Tod treat your family now.
30. Gai Tod – Thai Fried Chicken
I could not resist these crispy fried chicken pieces while traveling to Thailand last year. When I was walking the streets in Thailand, a seductive scent held me back, and I tried this attractive Gai Tod immediately.
Chicken pieces are crunchy on the outside, and tender on the inside, dipped in a sauce of oil and shallots that will leave you in love. In particular, it is not as greasy as fried chicken in Western countries.
This food was born 30 years ago when a couple selling chicken at Hat Yai market did not sell all the chicken. They used leftover chicken to turn into this delicious crispy fried dish.
31. Sai Oua – Northern Thai Sausage
Let’s discover Sai Oua, the enticing Northern Thai Sausage that’s charming foodies everywhere!
Originating from the northern areas of Thailand and northeastern Burma, this Chiang Mai Sausage has become a beloved favorite throughout the country. The name Sai Oua stems from the Thai words for intestine and stuffing, perfectly capturing the essence of this culinary delight.
Brimming with minced pork, fragrant herbs, and spices, this sausage is united by the kaeng khua red curry paste. You’ll find that Sai Oua can be made from various proteins, such as beef, chicken, or even fish.
This scrumptious sausage is grilled to perfection, accompanied by sticky rice and other flavorful dishes. And you can enjoy it as a tempting snack or appetizer.
Previously a homemade creation, these savory sausages are now readily available in stores, just waiting to delight your senses.
32. Moo Ping/ Mu Ping – Thai Grilled Pork Skewers
Moo Ping, or Mu Ping is the ever-popular Thai grilled pork skewers that have been delighting taste buds since 1952! “Mu” translates to pork, while “Ping” signifies grilling – a perfect representation of this dish.
Marinated in a blend of Thai fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and palm sugar, these succulent pork slices strike a delightful balance between savory and sweet.
Mu Ping is a versatile meal that can be enjoyed any time of day, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. As a staple in the bustling streets of Thailand, these skewers are usually sold between 5 AM and 11 AM, alongside a serving of sticky rice.
A typical meal set consists of three Mu Ping skewers and a portion of sticky rice. There are two distinct styles of Mu Ping available: Milk Grilled and Mu Ping Boran. While both are scrumptious, Milk Grilled is currently more prevalent due to its lower cost and richer flavor.
Mu Ping’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for meal prep, adding a quick and tasty protein option to your daily routine. Remember, incorporating coconut milk is crucial, as it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with a hint of sweetness.
Other Delicious Thai Dishes
Besides the great dishes above, you should also not miss the fabulous recipes below. Make the most of your remaining days in Thailand to enjoy this culinary quintessence right away.
33. Pak Boong – Stir-Fried Morning Glory
If you are looking for vegan Thai food, you can consider Pak Boong. The freshwater spinach plants will be stir-fried with soy sauce, garlic, and other spices to make a dish full of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors.
Besides soy sauce, Thai people will change the taste by using the oyster sauce. You will easily find this recipe at pubs or food markets in Thailand. It is common all over the country, so you can eat it whenever you want.
Phak boong has appeared in Thailand and Southeast Asian countries for a long time, and it is associated with the culture of these countries. You can easily see bunches of water spinach in the fields in Thailand.
34. Goong Ten – Dancing Shrimps
If you like to discover unique dishes of Thai cuisine, you should try Goong Ten. This is food not for those who cannot eat raw food because its main ingredients are live shrimp, but you will hardly forget its taste if you can eat it.
Tiny shrimp, when eaten raw, will retain their natural sweetness. You will feel the sour and salty taste of the fish sauce and lime juice in this food. This special dish is typical in the Isan region of Northeastern Thailand, which is also its hometown.
Let’s try the natural flavor of the live shrimp with goong ten.
35. Larb Leuat Neua – Uncooked Beef And Raw Cow Blood
This is an option for those who like intense experiences, Larb leuat neua will serve you with all raw ingredients. You will feel the original taste of these components in this food, but you can also vomit at any time.
The uncooked beef is combined with raw cow blood. Wow! Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? Satisfy your curiosity right now with a plate of larb leuat neua. You need to prepare an excellent stomach to not get sick when eating this recipe.
36. Pla Plao – Grilled Fish
Pla plao is a recipe that should appear on your must-try Thai food list. The dish has a unique way of processing when the fish is covered with salt and grilled with charcoal in layers of fragrant lemongrass leaves.
The outside of the fish looks a bit dry, yet it is soft and juicy on the inside. You can serve it with fresh noodles and herbs. This food was born and popularized during the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
When making Thai grilled fish, it’s important that you remember the indications showing that fish is properly cooked. Otherwise, it’s impossible to achieve the perfect balance between a crunchy exterior and a soft, juicy interior – a signature feature of this delicious Thai food.
37. Tod Mun Pla – Thai Fish Cake
If you are a fan of fish dishes, Thai fish cake is an option you should consider enjoying. Tender fish is combined with basil, lime leaves, and long beans to make a wonderful recipe that you can hardly pass up.
The secret to this incredible food is the dipping sauce. The sauce is like a mixture of flavors with alluring sweet, salty, and spicy tastes. Thais have combined many different ingredients and seasonings to make the perfect dipping sauce.
You can easily find this dish at Thai restaurants as an appetizer or enjoy the comfort of eating it at street vendors.
It is straightforward to cook delicious Tod Mun Pla.
38. Pad Kee Mao – Drunken Noodles
When coming to central Thailand, you will have the opportunity to enjoy delicious drunken noodles. This food was created by Chinese people living in Thailand. Its first version has the characteristic flavor of rice wine.
While Pad Thai boasts a sweet and nutty profile, Pad Kee Mao presents a spicy and savory palate. In contrast to the darker, sweeter sauce of Pad See Ew, Drunken Noodles feature a lighter-colored sauce with less sweetness.
The chewy and soft noodles are stir-fried with vegetables and spices for a fantastic taste. You will not be able to stop eating after enjoying this food for the first time.
39. Gai Med Ma Muang – Cashew Chicken
Gai Med Ma Muang – your tantalizing ticket to a Chinese-American taste sensation that’ll have you craving seconds!
This dish brings sweet and spicy together in perfect harmony, with Thai red chili peppers delivering a fiery kick, balanced by the sauce’s delectable sweetness. It’s a flavor fiesta with each mouthful!
Picture tender morsels of chicken, skillfully stir-fried or gently deep-fried, mingling with crispy cashews and immersed in an irresistible sauce. The choice of a savory garlic sauce or a rich, chicken stock-based sauce infused with oyster and soy sauce will have you salivating in anticipation.
Gai Med Ma Muang is your ultimate weeknight savior – fast, simple, and bursting with taste! It’s ideal for those hectic evenings when you’re craving a scrumptious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Say goodbye to weeknight dinner woes!
Thai cuisine fans may know its close cousin, kai phat met mamuang or kai phat met mamuang himmaphan. And for the Haitian food lovers, there’s poul ak nwa (a distinct chicken and cashew stew).
40. Tub Tim Grob – Red Ruby Dessert
Experience the magic of Tub Tim Grob, a delightful coconut milk-based dessert that’s perfect for beating the heat!
Beloved by Thais, this refreshing treat features crunchy water chestnut pieces encased in a soft tapioca dough, creating a stunning visual reminiscent of shimmering red rubies.
Served with sweetened coconut milk, shaved ice, and an infusion of pandan flavor, Tub Tim Grob is an irresistible symphony of taste and texture.
You can elevate this dessert to new heights by adding shredded jackfruit and jellied coconut flesh for an extra-special touch.
Known as the “Thai Ruby Dessert” due to its similarity to rubies or pomegranate seeds, the name “Tub Tim” translates to ruby or pomegranate, while “Grob” means crunchy in Thai.
The origin of Tub Tim Grob remains a mystery, with no historical facts pinpointing its creation. However, a similar dessert exists in neighboring Vietnam, known as Suong Sa Hot Luu.
The red kernels in this interesting Vietnamese dessert are called lựu or pomegranate. In Thailand, where rubies are found in the southern provinces, many locals associate the name “Tub Tim” with the precious gemstone. This has even led to the creation of “Moragote Grob” or crunchy emerald!
41. Kanom Krok – Coconut Pancakes
Discover the irresistible charm of Khanom Krok, a traditional Thai sweet treat that has captivated taste buds for generations. Crafted from a blend of coconut milk, rice flour, and sugar, these morsels boast a fragrant aroma and a smooth, sweet texture that melts in your mouth.
Khanom Krok shares similarities with dishes from Bangladesh, Myanmar, Laos, South India, Cambodia, and Indonesia, reflecting the interconnected culinary heritage of the region.
Dating back to the Ayutthaya period, Khanom Krok’s unique preparation involves a heating mantle (a hot indented frying pan) to create its distinctive shape.
Crafted with care, the dough for Khanom Krok begins with rice soaked in water, skillfully combined with shredded coconut, rich coconut milk, and cooked rice. A hint of salt adds balance to the flavors, while a lavish drizzle of pure coconut milk creates a luscious finish.
The Royal Thai variation introduces an array of exquisite toppings, such as sweet corn, fragrant scallions, or succulent shrimp, bringing a refined elegance to this timeless dessert.
The dessert’s distinctive shape has remained unchanged throughout the years, inspiring its name – in Thai, “Khanom Krok” translates to “snack mortar.”
Eating Customs And Traditions
Thai cuisine is not only renowned for its flavors but also for the unique customs and traditions that accompany its consumption. In this section, I will delve into the practices of family-style dining, the use of fork and spoon, and the emphasis on achieving a balance of flavors in Thai dishes.
Family-style Dining
Thai dining culture emphasizes communal eating, with families and friends typically sharing a variety of dishes placed at the center of the table. This approach allows everyone to sample multiple flavors and textures, showcasing the richness and diversity of Thai cuisine.
It also fosters a sense of togetherness and camaraderie among diners, reflecting the importance of family and community in Thai culture.
Use Of Fork And Spoon
In contrast to some Asian dining customs, Thais predominantly use a fork and spoon to eat their meals. The fork is used to push food onto the spoon, which then serves as the primary eating utensil. Chopsticks are generally reserved for noodle dishes, while hands are sometimes used for sticky rice or other finger foods.
Importance Of Balance In Flavors
Central to Thai cuisine is the principle of achieving a harmonious balance of flavors. Thai dishes are carefully crafted to create a perfect blend of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter elements, which not only tantalize the taste buds but also promote overall health and well-being.
This delicate balance is often achieved through the use of diverse ingredients, like herbs, spices, and sauces, in carefully measured proportions.
The Influence Of Thai Food On Global Cuisine
The widespread popularity of Thai cuisine has led to a significant impact on global culinary trends and preferences. In this section, I will explore how Thai food has influenced fusion dishes, spurred the growth of Thai restaurants worldwide, and played a pivotal role in promoting tourism in Thailand.
Fusion Dishes And Adaptations
Thai cuisine has inspired a variety of fusion dishes and adaptations in different parts of the world, as chefs and home cooks experiment with combining Thai flavors with local ingredients and culinary traditions.
Examples of such fusion dishes include Thai-inspired tacos, Thai-style pizza, and even Thai-flavored burgers. These adaptations showcase the versatility and adaptability of Thai cuisine, while also introducing new audiences to its unique flavors.
The Rise Of Thai Restaurants Worldwide
The growing popularity of Thai food has led to a surge in Thai restaurants across the globe, from small, family-owned eateries to upscale, fine-dining establishments.
These restaurants not only offer authentic Thai dishes but also provide diners with a glimpse into Thai culture and hospitality, helping to spread awareness and appreciation for Thai cuisine even further.
Thai Food’s Role In Promoting Tourism
Thai cuisine has become an integral part of the country’s tourism industry, with food enthusiasts traveling to Thailand to experience its culinary delights firsthand.
Cooking classes, food tours, and street food markets have become popular attractions for tourists, who relish the opportunity to learn about Thai ingredients and techniques, as well as to sample authentic Thai dishes.
In this way, Thai food serves as a cultural ambassador, enticing visitors to explore and appreciate the rich history, traditions, and flavors of Thailand.
FAQs
Let’s get the inside scoop on Thai cuisine with my FAQs section!
Have A Good Trip!
Food plays an essential role in travel to better understand the traditions and culture of a country. Therefore, do not forget to taste the unique Thai dishes in this post to have a wonderful trip.
If you know other famous Thai dishes, do not hesitate to share them in the comments below to let everyone know. I hope this article will make your Thailand travel planning easier. Thanks for reading.
