Explore Thailand's Must-Try Food

Thai cuisine is renowned worldwide for its bold flavours, intricate balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, and the way it reflects the country's diverse regions and rich history. Thailand offers an unparalleled culinary adventure from bustling street markets to elegant restaurants. Whether you’re savouring a comforting bowl of Khao Soi in the north or indulging in a plate of fresh Pad Thai by the beach, every bite tells a story. 

Here’s a guide to the must-try dishes that will not only satisfy your appetite but also ignite your curiosity with their unique flavours and fascinating origins.

Pad Thai 

A quintessential street food, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish that masterfully combines rice noodles, shrimp or chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, and crushed peanuts, all tossed in a tangy tamarind-based sauce.

What's special? Pad Thai was popularised during the mid-20th century as part of a national campaign to promote Thai nationalism and reduce rice consumption. Its creation was encouraged by the government to foster a sense of national identity.

Tom Yum Goong 

This iconic hot and sour soup features succulent shrimp infused with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and fiery chillies, creating a symphony of flavours that epitomise Thai cuisine.

What's special? Tom Yum Goong is renowned for its medicinal properties, thanks to its herbal ingredients, which are believed to boost immunity and aid digestion.

Massaman Curry 

A rich, mildly spiced curry, Massaman is a harmonious blend of meat, usually beef or chicken, simmered with potatoes and peanuts in a coconut milk base, flavoured with cinnamon and star anise.

What's special? Massaman Curry reflects Thailand's historical trade connections, incorporating Persian and Indian culinary influences, which is evident in its unique spice profile.

Khao Soi 

A northern Thai delicacy, Khao Soi is a creamy coconut curry noodle soup garnished with crispy fried noodles, pickled mustard greens, and shallots, offering a delightful contrast of textures.

What's special? Khao Soi's origins are influenced by Chinese Muslim traders, blending Thai and Middle Eastern culinary traditions into a unique fusion.

Pad Kra Pao 

A popular street food, Pad Kra Pao is a spicy stir-fry of minced meat, typically pork or chicken, with Thai holy basil, garlic, and chillies, which is often topped with a fried egg.

What's special? Known as a go-to comfort food for many Thais, Pad Kra Pao is celebrated for its simplicity and the fiery kick from bird's eye chillies.

Mango Sticky Rice 

A beloved Thai dessert, this dish features sweet sticky rice paired with ripe mango slices and drizzled with creamy coconut milk, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

What's special? Traditionally enjoyed during the mango season from April to June, this dessert highlights Thailand's agricultural abundance and the importance of seasonal produce.

Khanom Krok 

These charming coconut rice pancakes are a street-side favourite, boasting a crispy outer layer and a creamy, soft centre. Often topped with sweet corn, taro, or green onions, Khanom Krok strikes a perfect balance between savoury and sweet, making it a versatile snack or dessert.

What’s special? Khanom Krok is cooked in a traditional cast-iron pan with small round indentations, reminiscent of a Danish æbleskiver pan. This unique preparation method gives these bite-sized delights their distinctive texture and irresistible appeal.

Whether you're slurping up noodles at a street stall in Bangkok or nibbling on Khanom Krok by the beach, one thing's for sure: your belly will thank you, and your heart might just fall in love with Thailand. Bon appétit—or as they say in Thai, “kin hai aroi na!”