When visiting Thailand, one of the biggest highlights of your trip will undoubtedly be the food. Thai cuisine is a vibrant mix of flavors that bring together sweet, spicy, sour, and savory in perfect harmony. In this article, we’ll guide you through 10 must-try Thailand foods that every traveler should experience.
Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Bangkok or relaxing on a beach in Phuket, make sure you seek out these iconic dishes for an authentic taste of Thailand.
1. Pad Thai (ผัดไทย)
No trip to Thailand is complete without indulging in Pad Thai, one of the country’s most well-known dishes. This stir-fried noodle dish has become a global favorite for good reason. It’s the perfect blend of chewy rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, and a tangy tamarind sauce. Topped with crushed peanuts, bean sprouts, and a slice of lime, Pad Thai offers a balance of flavors that defines Thai cooking.
When trying Pad Thai, look for a vendor that offers freshly made sauce and quality ingredients. Every bite should deliver a burst of flavors, with the tamarind giving it a slightly sour edge while the peanuts add a satisfying crunch.
Where to Find the Best Pad Thai
While you’ll find Pad Thai in virtually every part of Thailand, some of the best spots to try this dish are at local street stalls or markets like Bangkok’s Banglamphu Market. If you prefer a sit-down restaurant experience, Thip Samai Pad Thai in Bangkok is often considered one of the top places for authentic Pad Thai.
2. Tom Yum Goong (ต้มยำกุ้ง)
Thailand is also known for its flavorful soups, and Tom Yum Goong, or spicy shrimp soup, is at the top of the list. This fragrant soup is made with fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili peppers, which give it a rich, aromatic flavor.
The key ingredients in Tom Yum Goong are shrimp, mushrooms, and a balance of hot and sour flavors. It’s a dish that will invigorate your taste buds and give you a true sense of Thailand’s dynamic flavors. The blend of herbs, spices, and seafood makes this soup a must-try during your visit.
Where to Try Authentic Tom Yum Goong
Many restaurants across Thailand serve Tom Yum Goong, but for a more authentic experience, try it at local markets or eateries. You can find excellent versions of this dish at Or Tor Kor Market in Bangkok, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors are the norm.
3. Som Tum (ส้มตำ)
Som Tum, also known as green papaya salad, is a popular dish from Isaan, the northeastern region of Thailand. This refreshing salad combines shredded green papaya, cherry tomatoes, green beans, garlic, and a spicy chili dressing. The result is a dish that is tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet.
Som Tum is often served as a side dish, but it’s also filling enough to be eaten on its own. It’s perfect for those who love spicy food and are looking for something light yet flavorful. You can adjust the spice level to your liking, but in its traditional form, Som Tum packs quite a punch.
Where to Taste the Best Som Tum
For an authentic Som Tum experience, head to the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok. Here, you can find stalls that serve freshly made Som Tum prepared right in front of you. The balance of flavors will leave a lasting impression.
4. Massaman Curry (มัสมั่น)
Unlike other Thai curries that are known for their fiery heat, Massaman Curry is milder, with a unique blend of spices that gives it a deep, warming flavor. This dish has its roots in southern Thailand and is influenced by Persian and Indian cuisines, which explains its rich, complex taste.
Made with tender pieces of meat, often beef or chicken, slow-cooked with potatoes, coconut milk, cinnamon, cardamom, and peanuts, Massaman Curry is comforting and delicious. It’s a perfect dish for those who want to try something flavorful without overwhelming spice.
Where to Enjoy Massaman Curry
You can find Massaman Curry in many Thai restaurants, but for a more authentic experience, look for local spots in southern Thailand, such as Koh Samui or Krabi. Street vendors in Bangkok also serve this dish, often as part of a daily special.
5. Khao Pad (ข้าวผัด)
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, Khao Pad, or fried rice, is a go-to option in Thailand. This dish is made with jasmine rice, eggs, garlic, and a mix of vegetables, typically accompanied by a choice of chicken, shrimp, or pork.
Khao Pad is often served with a wedge of lime and a small side of fish sauce with chili, which allows you to customize the flavor to your taste. It’s a quick, filling dish that’s perfect for lunch or a late-night snack.
Best Places for Khao Pad
Since it’s a staple dish, you’ll find Khao Pad everywhere in Thailand. The best versions are usually found in small, family-run restaurants or at food stalls in busy markets like Sukhumvit Soi 38 in Bangkok.
6. Pad Krapow (ผัดกะเพรา)
For something spicy and savory, try Pad Krapow, one of Thailand’s most beloved stir-fried dishes. It’s made with ground meat (usually pork or chicken) stir-fried with Thai holy basil, garlic, and fresh chili peppers. The dish is served with rice and topped with a fried egg, making it a hearty and flavorful meal.
Pad Krapow is perfect for those who enjoy spicy food. The combination of fragrant basil and fiery chilies creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to forget.
Where to Find the Best Pad Krapow
You’ll find Pad Krapow at almost any street vendor in Thailand, especially in Bangkok. For an excellent version, try the vendors at Victory Monument or Pratunam Market.
7. Gaeng Keow Wan (แกงเขียวหวาน)
Gaeng Keow Wan, or green curry, is one of the most popular curries in Thailand. Made with green curry paste, coconut milk, and a variety of vegetables, this dish is usually cooked with chicken or fish. The curry is mildly spicy but packed with flavor thanks to the fresh herbs like basil and coriander.
The creamy, rich texture of the coconut milk balances out the spice, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Pair it with steamed rice or roti for the full experience.
Where to Find Delicious Green Curry
To try the best green curry, visit Klong Toey Market in Bangkok or sample it in the northern city of Chiang Mai where local ingredients add a unique twist to the dish.
8. Moo Ping (หมูปิ้ง)
Street food lovers should not miss out on Moo Ping, grilled pork skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. These skewers are usually served with sticky rice, making it a perfect snack or quick meal while exploring the streets of Thailand.
The pork is marinated in a mix of garlic, soy sauce, and coconut milk, which gives it a tender, juicy texture. Moo Ping is often enjoyed with a spicy dipping sauce for an added kick.
Where to Try Moo Ping
For the best Moo Ping, head to the Silom Night Market in Bangkok. The skewers are freshly grilled and packed with flavor, making it one of the most popular street food options in Thailand.
9. Khao Soi (ข้าวซอย)
If you’re traveling in northern Thailand, particularly in Chiang Mai, you must try Khao Soi, a creamy and spicy coconut curry noodle soup. The dish features soft egg noodles, topped with crispy fried noodles, and is served with a rich curry broth made from coconut milk, spices, and meat (usually chicken or beef).
Khao Soi is known for its complex flavors, combining sweet, spicy, and savory elements in each bite. It’s often served with pickled mustard greens and fresh lime to enhance the flavors.
Where to Experience the Best Khao Soi
Chiang Mai is the best place to try Khao Soi, and many locals recommend visiting Khao Soi Khun Yai or Khao Soi Mae Sai for an authentic bowl of this northern Thai specialty.
10. Mango Sticky Rice (ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง)
Finally, no trip to Thailand would be complete without trying Mango Sticky Rice, a beloved Thai dessert. This dish consists of sticky rice cooked in coconut milk, paired with slices of ripe, juicy mango. The combination of the sweet rice and the fresh mango creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Mango Sticky Rice is especially popular during the mango season, and it’s a refreshing way to end any meal in Thailand.
Where to Find Mango Sticky Rice
You’ll find Mango Sticky Rice at most dessert stalls and restaurants in Thailand, but for an exceptional version, visit Mae Varee in Bangkok, a dessert shop famous for its fresh mangoes and perfectly cooked sticky rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the must-try foods in Thailand?
Some must-try foods in Thailand include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Som Tum, Massaman Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice.
2. Is Thai food very spicy?
Thai food can be spicy, but many dishes allow you to adjust the level of spice to your preference. Dishes like Massaman Curry and Mango Sticky Rice are typically milder.
3. What is the best place to eat street food in Thailand?
Bangkok is famous for its street food, with places like Khao San Road, Chatuchak Market, and Silom Night Market offering some of the best options.
4. Can I find vegetarian options in Thailand?
Yes, many Thai dishes can be made vegetarian. Look for dishes like Pad Thai, Som Tum, and stir-fried vegetables. Always specify your dietary preferences.
5. What is the best time to try Mango Sticky Rice?
The best time to try Mango Sticky Rice is during mango season, which typically runs from March to June in Thailand.
6. Is Thai food healthy?
Thai food is generally healthy due to its use of fresh ingredients, vegetables, and lean meats. However, some dishes can be high in sugar and oil, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.
