When you think of Thai food, pad Thai is probably the first dish that comes to mind especially for people who have only ever eaten Thai food overseas. But the culinary range of Thailand extends far beyond this iconic noodle dish. If you’re a food enthusiast planning a trip to Thailand, then you’re in for a real treat. From street food markets to swanky fine dining establishments, Thailand offers a great range of flavors and experiences.
I would always recommend a stroll through the local street food markets. Here, you’ll find vendors serving up a range of dishes that are as diverse as they are delicious. You must try a somtam, a spicy green papaya salad that’s bursting with flavors of lime, chili, and fish sauce. This dish is a staple in northeastern Thailand and can be customized with ingredients like salted egg, dried shrimp, or peanuts.
As you venture further, you’ll discover the diversity of seafood in Thailand. With its extensive coastline and rich marine life, Thailand is a haven for seafood lovers. Whether you’re enjoying a simple grilled fish skewer from a street vendor or dining on a lavish seafood platter at a beachfront restaurant, the freshness and quality are unparalleled. Don’t miss out on tom yum goong, a hot and sour shrimp soup that is both aromatic and invigorating, perfectly capturing the balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors that Thai cuisine is famous for.
If you are staying in Bangkok for a day or two, make sure you visit the city’s Chinatown, known locally as Yaowarat. This district is a paradise for foodies, offering everything from crispy pork belly to mango sticky rice. It’s cheap and delicious! As you wander through its vibrant streets, the enticing aromas of roasted chestnuts and sizzling noodles will guide you from one stall to the another and you’ll find yourself trying food you didn’t even know existed.
If you want a really unique experience, then you can check out the floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa. These markets offer a peek into traditional Thai life, where vendors sell fresh produce and cooked meals directly from their boats. You be able to sample grilled river prawns and try a bowl of authentic boat noodles which are a rich and savory soup made with beef or pork, and flavored with herbs and spices.
If you’re keen on exploring the regional differences in Thai cuisine, head to the north. In cities like Chiang Mai, you’ll find khao soi, a creamy coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles and often served with chicken or beef. The flavors are distinct from the central Thai dishes, offering a taste of the region’s unique culinary heritage.
As you venture into the southern part of Thailand, be prepared for a spicier palette that has hints of Malaysian and Indian spices. Here, dishes like gaeng som, a sour curry, and massaman curry, known for its rich and creamy texture, reflect the influence of neighboring Malaysia and India. The use of turmeric, lemongrass, and other aromatic spices make southern Thai cuisine an exciting exploration of flavors.
In contrast, the Issan region in the northeast of Thailand is known for its bold and fiery dishes. Grilled meats, sticky rice, and spicy dips like nam prik are staples here. The food is often seasoned with ingredients like lime, chili, and fish sauce, creating amazing blends of flavors that is both rustic and hearty. For me personally, Issan is one of my favorite styles of food in Thailand.
