Thailand food guide

Thai food

From creamy khao soi in Chiang Mai to fiery som tam from Isan and massaman from Ayutthaya: discover 100 dishes from Thailand's four cuisines, and where to eat them at their best.

100dishes
4regions
15food spots

Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0 (mirrored and cropped)

The four cuisines of Thailand

Thai food is really four cuisines. The north (Lanna) is mild and herbal, with sticky rice, sausages and curries without coconut. Isan in the northeast is known for fiery salads, grilled chicken and fermented fish. Central Thailand and Bangkok give you the classics you know from restaurants: tom yum, green curry and pad thai. The south cooks hottest, with turmeric, seafood and Malay and Muslim influences.

Click a region or food spot on the map, or filter below by cuisine, type of dish, spice level and vegetarian.

Map: dishes by region and the best food spots

Pinch with two fingers to zoom; tap a point for more info.

NorthIsanCentralSouthFood spots and markets (approximate location)

All 100 dishes

Khao soi – ข้าวซอย (Thai dish)
Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0
NorthNoodles

Khao soi

ข้าวซอย · khao soi

🌶️🌶️ spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Creamy coconut curry soup with soft egg noodles, topped with a nest of crispy fried noodles. The signature dish of Chiang Mai, usually served with chicken or beef.

Ingredients

  • egg noodles
  • coconut milk
  • curry paste
  • chicken
  • shallot
  • pickled mustard greens
  • lime

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Temple of Thai ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Noodle shops in Chiang Mai, e.g. Khao Soi Khun Yai (Michelin Bib Gourmand) or around Wualai Road.
Sai ua (northern Thai sausage) – ไส้อั่ว (Thai dish)
Photo: Isan1985, CC BY-SA 4.0
NorthGrilled

Sai ua (northern Thai sausage)

ไส้อั่ว · sai ua

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Grilled pork sausage packed with lemongrass, kaffir lime, galangal and chilli. Eaten in slices with sticky rice and raw vegetables.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • lemongrass
  • galangal
  • kaffir lime leaf
  • chilli
  • turmeric

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Warorot Market and the Sunday Walking Street in Chiang Mai.
Nam phrik num (green chilli dip) – น้ำพริกหนุ่ม (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthDip & side dish

Nam phrik num (green chilli dip)

น้ำพริกหนุ่ม · nam phrik num

🌶️🌶️ spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Smoky dip of roasted young green chillies, shallots and garlic pounded in a mortar. Eaten with sticky rice, vegetables and pork crackling (khaep mu).

Ingredients

  • green chilli
  • shallot
  • garlic
  • fish sauce
  • salt

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ VideoWaiikrazy

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Markets in Chiang Mai; also sold packed as a souvenir.
Nam phrik ong – น้ำพริกอ่อง (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthDip & side dish

Nam phrik ong

น้ำพริกอ่อง · nam phrik ong

🌶️ mild

Thick dip of small tomatoes, minced pork and dried chilli, a bit like a Thai bolognese. Served with raw vegetables, sticky rice and pork crackling.

Ingredients

  • tomato
  • minced pork
  • dried chilli
  • shrimp paste
  • garlic

📖 View the recipe ImportFood ▶ VideoSpoon Fork Heart

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Northern Thai restaurants and markets in Chiang Mai.
Kaeng hang le (Burmese-style pork curry) – แกงฮังเล (Thai dish)
Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0
NorthCurry

Kaeng hang le (Burmese-style pork curry)

แกงฮังเล · kaeng hang le

🌶️ mild

Slow-braised, sweet and sour curry of pork belly with ginger and tamarind, made without coconut milk. It shows Burmese influence.

Ingredients

  • pork belly
  • ginger
  • tamarind
  • garlic
  • hang le curry spices
  • palm sugar

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Festivals and northern Thai eateries in Chiang Mai and Lampang.
Khanom chin nam ngiao – ขนมจีนน้ำเงี้ยว (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthNoodles

Khanom chin nam ngiao

ขนมจีนน้ำเงี้ยว · khanom chin nam ngiao

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Fresh rice noodles in a spicy broth with tomato, pork ribs and cubes of blood. Seasoned with fermented soybeans and dried kapok flowers.

Ingredients

  • rice noodles
  • tomato
  • pork ribs
  • pork blood
  • fermented soybean
  • kapok flower

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ Videoกินได้อร่อยด้วย (Thai)

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Rai
Where to eat
Morning markets in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai.
Larb mueang (northern larb) – ลาบเมือง (Thai dish)
Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0
NorthSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Larb mueang (northern larb)

ลาบเมือง · lap mueang

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Northern-style larb: finely chopped meat with a dry spice mix including long pepper and cinnamon. Less sour than Isan larb, often stir-fried (larb khua).

Ingredients

  • pork
  • long pepper
  • dried chilli
  • spices
  • garlic
  • mint

📖 View the recipe Serious Eats (J. Kenji López-Alt)
Second recipe: Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ VideoTODAY Play (Thai)

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Larb restaurants in Chiang Mai; ask for 'suk' (cooked).
Kaeng khae (northern herb curry) – แกงแค (Thai dish)
Photo: Xufanc, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthCurry

Kaeng khae (northern herb curry)

แกงแค · kaeng khae

🌶️🌶️ spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Clear, herbal curry without coconut milk, full of wild vegetables and leaves. Usually with chicken or frog and cha plu (wild betel) leaves.

Ingredients

  • chicken
  • wild betel leaf
  • eggplant
  • beans
  • lemongrass
  • chilli

📖 View the recipe KRUA.CO (Thai) ▶ Videoกับข้าวกับปลาโอ PlaoCooking (Thai)

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Local eateries in Chiang Mai.
Khaep mu (pork rinds) – แคบหมู (Thai dish)
Photo: Fumikas Sagisavas, CC0
NorthStreet food & snacks

Khaep mu (pork rinds)

แคบหมู · khaep mu

○ not spicy

Deep-fried, puffy pork rind eaten with almost every dip in the north. Also popular as a snack on its own.

Ingredients

  • pork rind
  • salt

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide
Second recipe: Chiang Mai Tourist Guide ▶ Videoครัวพี่กัญญ์ Krua P'gunn (Thai)

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Warorot Market in Chiang Mai.
Khao kan chin (steamed rice with blood) – ข้าวกั๊นจิ้น (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthRice dish

Khao kan chin (steamed rice with blood)

ข้าวกั๊นจิ้น · khao kan chin

🌶️ mild

Rice mixed with pork blood and mince, steamed in a banana leaf. Served with fried garlic and chilli.

Ingredients

  • rice
  • pork blood
  • minced pork
  • garlic
  • banana leaf

📖 View the recipe SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu)
Second recipe: Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoCHOK CK (Thai)

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Morning markets in Chiang Mai.
Tam khanun (young jackfruit salad) – ตำขนุน (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Tam khanun (young jackfruit salad)

ตำขนุน · tam khanun

🌶️🌶️ spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Boiled young jackfruit pounded with chilli paste and sometimes minced pork. A traditional northern dish for festive occasions.

Ingredients

  • young jackfruit
  • chilli paste
  • garlic
  • tomato
  • minced pork

📖 View the recipe Saveur
Second recipe: The Gastrographer ▶ VideoChef Moo Tui

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Northern Thai restaurants in Chiang Mai.
Kaeng ho (northern stir-fried leftover curry) – แกงโฮะ (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthCurry

Kaeng ho (northern stir-fried leftover curry)

แกงโฮะ · kaeng ho

🌶️ mild

Originally a mix of leftover curries stir-fried with glass noodles, bamboo shoots and vegetables. Now a dish in its own right on northern menus.

Ingredients

  • glass noodles
  • bamboo shoots
  • pork
  • hang le curry
  • vegetables

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

This version is the glass-noodle variant of kaeng ho
Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Northern Thai restaurants in Chiang Mai.
Kaeng khanun (jackfruit curry) – แกงขนุน (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthCurry

Kaeng khanun (jackfruit curry)

แกงขนุน · kaeng khanun

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Spicy soupy curry with young jackfruit, tomato and often pork ribs. Soured with acacia leaves or tamarind.

Ingredients

  • young jackfruit
  • pork ribs
  • tomato
  • chilli paste
  • shrimp paste

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: The Gastrographer ▶ VideoHector Sun

Region
North (Lanna) · Lampang
Where to eat
Local markets in Lampang and Chiang Mai.
Kaeng yuak (banana stem curry) – แกงหยวก (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthCurry

Kaeng yuak (banana stem curry)

แกงหยวก · kaeng yuak

🌶️ mild

Curry made with the tender core of the banana stem, with chicken or pork. A simple village dish.

Ingredients

  • banana stem
  • chicken
  • chilli paste
  • lemongrass

📖 View the recipe Aroifin (Thai)
Second recipe: Kamphaeng Phet Rajabhat University (lokale gerechten) ▶ VideoHector Sun

Central Thai version of banana-stem curry, not a specific Lanna recipe
Region
North (Lanna) · Nan
Where to eat
Village markets in Nan and Chiang Mai.
Khao lam (sticky rice in bamboo) – ข้าวหลาม (Thai dish)
Photo: Wagaung at en.wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthDessert

Khao lam (sticky rice in bamboo)

ข้าวหลาม · khao lam

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Sweet sticky rice with coconut milk and beans, cooked in a bamboo tube over fire. You peel the bamboo and eat the rice from it.

Ingredients

  • sticky rice
  • coconut milk
  • black beans
  • sugar
  • bamboo

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Roadside stalls and markets in northern and eastern Thailand.
Khao taen (rice cracker with cane sugar) – ข้าวแต๋น (Thai dish)
Photo: Dharmadana, CC BY 4.0
NorthStreet food & snacks

Khao taen (rice cracker with cane sugar)

ข้าวแต๋น · khao taen

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Deep-fried sticky rice cracker made with watermelon juice and drizzled with caramel. A well-known treat and souvenir from Lampang.

Ingredients

  • sticky rice
  • watermelon juice
  • cane sugar
  • sesame

📖 View the recipe SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu)
Second recipe: Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ VideoMoriginalThai (Deutsch)

Region
North (Lanna) · Lampang
Where to eat
Souvenir shops in Lampang.
Kaeng kradang (jellied pork curry) – แกงกระด้าง (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthCurry

Kaeng kradang (jellied pork curry)

แกงกระด้าง · kaeng kradang

🌶️ mild

Cold curry of pork trotters and head that sets into a jelly. A cool-season dish.

Ingredients

  • pork trotters
  • pork head
  • chilli
  • spices

📖 View the recipe KRUA.CO (Thai)
Second recipe: Chiang Mai Tourist Guide ▶ VideoLanna Information by CMULibrary

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Northern markets in the cool season.
Khao som (Shan tomato rice) – ข้าวส้ม (Thai dish)
Photo: kozeyar, CC BY 2.0
NorthRice dish

Khao som (Shan tomato rice)

ข้าวส้ม · khao som

🌶️ mild

Rice kneaded with tomato, turmeric and fish, shaped into a ball. A Tai Yai (Shan) dish from Mae Hong Son.

Ingredients

  • rice
  • tomato
  • fish
  • turmeric
  • garlic oil

📖 View the recipe Club Rangoon ▶ Videoรอยยิ้มแรงใจ (Thai)

Burmese/Shan recipe (htamin jin), the same dish as khao som
Region
North (Lanna) · Mae Hong Son
Where to eat
Markets in Mae Hong Son and Pai.
Aep pla (fish grilled in banana leaf) – แอ็บปลา (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthGrilled

Aep pla (fish grilled in banana leaf)

แอ็บปลา · aep pla

🌶️ mild

Fish mixed with herbs and egg, grilled in a banana-leaf parcel. A typical Lanna ('aep') preparation.

Ingredients

  • fish
  • egg
  • shallot
  • lemongrass
  • banana leaf

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ Videoandrew likes to cook stuff

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Markets in Chiang Mai.
ขนมเทียนNo photo yet
NorthDessert

Khanom tian (sticky rice pyramid)

ขนมเทียน · khanom tian

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Pyramid-shaped parcel of sticky rice dough with sweet mung bean or coconut filling. Made around Songkran and other festivals.

Ingredients

  • glutinous rice flour
  • mung beans
  • coconut
  • banana leaf

📖 View the recipe Aroimak (Thai)
Second recipe: National Dish Recipes ▶ VideoThun Thun Channel

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Northern markets around Songkran.
Miang (fermented tea leaves) – เมี่ยง (Thai dish)
Photo: Xufanc, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthStreet food & snacks

Miang (fermented tea leaves)

เมี่ยง · miang

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Fermented tea leaves from the hills, chewed with salt or ginger. An old Lanna tradition.

Ingredients

  • fermented tea leaves
  • salt
  • ginger

📖 View the recipe Temple of Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Rai
Where to eat
Hill villages near Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Kaeng pa (jungle curry) – แกงป่า (Thai dish)
Photo: Wittayawatfirst, CC BY-SA 4.0
CentralCurry

Kaeng pa (jungle curry)

แกงป่า · kaeng pa

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Very spicy curry without coconut milk, with wild herbs, green peppercorns and vegetables. Once made with game from the forest.

Eaten all over Thailand, especially in the countryside.

Ingredients

  • curry paste
  • green peppercorns
  • fingerroot
  • eggplant
  • meat

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
Central / Bangkok · Ayutthaya
Where to eat
Throughout Thailand, especially in hilly regions.
Thua nao (fermented soybean disc) – ถั่วเน่า (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 4.0
NorthDip & side dish

Thua nao (fermented soybean disc)

ถั่วเน่า · thua nao

🌶️ mild · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Fermented soybeans dried into thin discs. Used as a seasoning, like fish sauce elsewhere.

Ingredients

  • soybeans
  • salt

📖 View the recipe JIRCAS Thai fermented foods database ▶ VideoChinda Khmu ครัวจินดา (Thai)

Describes the fermentation process (research database), not a kitchen recipe
Region
North (Lanna) · Mae Hong Son
Where to eat
Markets in Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai.
Kaeng jo phak kat (mustard green soup) – จอผักกาด (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
NorthSoup

Kaeng jo phak kat (mustard green soup)

จอผักกาด · jo phak kat

🌶️ mild

Sour soup of mustard greens with pork ribs and tamarind. Light and refreshing.

Ingredients

  • mustard greens
  • pork ribs
  • tamarind
  • shrimp paste

📖 View the recipe Thairath (Thai)
Second recipe: Bangkok Glutton ▶ VideoKRUA dot CO (Thai)

Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Local eateries in Chiang Mai.
Larb lu (raw blood larb) – ลาบหลู้ (Thai dish)
Photo: Jpatokal, CC BY-SA 4.0
NorthSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Larb lu (raw blood larb)

ลาบหลู้ · lap lu

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

⚠️ Health warning: raw pork and blood. Real risk of Streptococcus suis and trichinosis. We advise against eating it.

Northern larb made with raw pork blood and spices. A dish for adventurous eaters.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • pork blood
  • long pepper
  • spices

📖 View the recipe Chiangrai108 (Thai) ▶ Videoโอปเป้ คนเมียง (Thai)

Recipe uses raw blood (health risk)
Region
North (Lanna) · Chiang Mai
Where to eat
Local larb shops in Chiang Mai.
Som tam (green papaya salad) – ส้มตำ (Thai dish)
Photo: Vee Satayamas, CC BY 4.0
IsanSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Som tam (green papaya salad)

ส้มตำ · som tam

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Shredded green papaya pounded with chilli, lime, fish sauce and tomato. The emblematic dish of Isan: sour, salty, sweet and spicy at once.

Ingredients

  • green papaya
  • chilli
  • lime
  • fish sauce
  • tomato
  • peanuts

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu) ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Everywhere; in Isan ask for 'tam Lao' with pla ra.
Larb (Isan minced meat salad) – ลาบ (Thai dish)
Photo: Jpatokal, CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Larb (Isan minced meat salad)

ลาบ · lap

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Minced meat with lime, fish sauce, chilli, mint and toasted rice powder. Eaten with sticky rice.

Ingredients

  • minced meat
  • lime
  • fish sauce
  • toasted rice powder
  • mint
  • shallot

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Temple of Thai ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Isan restaurants all over Thailand.
Nam tok mu (grilled pork salad) – น้ำตกหมู (Thai dish)
Photo: Xufanc, CC BY-SA 3.0
IsanSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Nam tok mu (grilled pork salad)

น้ำตกหมู · nam tok mu

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Strips of grilled pork with lime, chilli and toasted rice powder. 'Nam tok' (waterfall) refers to the meat juices.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • lime
  • chilli
  • toasted rice powder
  • mint

📖 View the recipe Rachel Cooks Thai
Second recipe: Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoTrueTasteOfThai

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Isan eateries.
Sai krok Isan (sour sausage) – ไส้กรอกอีสาน (Thai dish)
Photo: Vee Satayamas, CC BY 2.0
IsanGrilled

Sai krok Isan (sour sausage)

ไส้กรอกอีสาน · sai krok isan

🌶️ mild

Lightly fermented sausage of pork and rice, grilled. Eaten with ginger, chilli and cabbage.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • rice
  • garlic
  • salt

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoMunchies

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Udon Thani
Where to eat
Street stalls and markets in Isan.
Naem (fermented pork) – แหนม (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
IsanStreet food & snacks

Naem (fermented pork)

แหนม · naem

🌶️ mild

Sour fermented pork with garlic and rice, wrapped in leaves. Eaten raw or cooked.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • pork skin
  • rice
  • garlic
  • chilli

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoDaily Dish

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Udon Thani
Where to eat
Markets in Isan; also in the north.
Suea rong hai (crying tiger beef) – เสือร้องไห้ (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
IsanGrilled

Suea rong hai (crying tiger beef)

เสือร้องไห้ · suea rong hai

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Grilled beef brisket in slices with a sour tamarind-chilli dip (jaew). The name means 'crying tiger'.

Ingredients

  • beef
  • tamarind
  • chilli flakes
  • fish sauce

📖 View the recipe ImportFood ▶ VideoLion Brand Rice

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Isan restaurants.
ตำซั่วNo photo yet
IsanSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Tam sua (papaya salad with noodles)

ตำซั่ว · tam sua

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Som tam mixed with fresh rice noodles (khanom chin). A filling variant.

Ingredients

  • green papaya
  • rice noodles
  • pla ra
  • chilli
  • lime

📖 View the recipe Hungry in Thailand
Second recipe: Plum and Pan ▶ Videoอิหล่า หมอนกิ่ว (Thai)

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Som tam stalls in Isan.
Khao niao (sticky rice) – ข้าวเหนียว (Thai dish)
Photo: 국립국어원, CC BY-SA 2.0 kr
IsanRice dish

Khao niao (sticky rice)

ข้าวเหนียว · khao niao

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Steamed glutinous rice served in a woven basket. Eaten by hand, rolled into a ball.

Ingredients

  • glutinous rice

📖 View the recipe Rachel Cooks Thai
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
With every Isan or northern meal.
Kaeng om (herbal curry with dill) – แกงอ่อม (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanCurry

Kaeng om (herbal curry with dill)

แกงอ่อม · kaeng om

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Clear herbal curry with dill, lemongrass and pla ra. Often with chicken or beef.

Ingredients

  • dill
  • lemongrass
  • pla ra
  • chicken
  • chilli

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoRK Thai Kitchen

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Isan restaurants.
Tom saep (hot and sour Isan soup) – ต้มแซ่บ (Thai dish)
Photo: Boonlert Aroonpiboon, CC0
IsanSoup

Tom saep (hot and sour Isan soup)

ต้มแซ่บ · tom saep

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Hot and sour soup with pork ribs or offal, lemongrass and roasted chilli. Like tom yum but more rustic.

Ingredients

  • pork ribs
  • lemongrass
  • galangal
  • chilli
  • lime

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide
Second recipe: The Gastrographer ▶ Videoครัวบ้านสวนทวี - Baan Suan Tawee Cooking (Thai)

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Ubon Ratchathani
Where to eat
Isan eateries.
Mok pla (steamed fish in banana leaf) – หมกปลา (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
IsanGrilled

Mok pla (steamed fish in banana leaf)

หมกปลา · mok pla

🌶️ mild

Fish with herbs and dill steamed or grilled in banana leaf. A typical Lao-Isan dish.

Ingredients

  • fish
  • dill
  • lemongrass
  • shallot
  • banana leaf

📖 View the recipe The Gastrographer
Second recipe: Wongnai ▶ VideoThun Thun Channel

Lao mok pa; the alternative uses pla siu (small fish)
Region
Northeast (Isan) · Ubon Ratchathani
Where to eat
Markets in Isan.
Jaew bong (chilli paste) – แจ่วบอง (Thai dish)
Photo: Isan1985, CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanDip & side dish

Jaew bong (chilli paste)

แจ่วบอง · jaeo bong

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Thick chilli paste with fermented fish (pla ra), roasted shallot and garlic. Eaten with sticky rice and vegetables.

Ingredients

  • dried chilli
  • pla ra
  • shallot
  • garlic
  • galangal

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ Videoครัว กัณฐมณี Channel (Thai)

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Ubon Ratchathani
Where to eat
Isan markets, also in jars.
Nam chim jaew (dipping sauce) – น้ำจิ้มแจ่ว (Thai dish)
Photo: P1898, CC BY 4.0
IsanDip & side dish

Nam chim jaew (dipping sauce)

น้ำจิ้มแจ่ว · nam chim jaeo

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Thin dipping sauce of fish sauce, tamarind, chilli flakes and toasted rice. The classic partner for grilled meat.

Ingredients

  • fish sauce
  • tamarind
  • chilli flakes
  • toasted rice powder

📖 View the recipe Rachel Cooks Thai
Second recipe: SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu) ▶ Videoบ้านน้ํายํา สร้างอาชีพ (Thai)

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
With every Isan grill.
Kaeng no mai (bamboo shoot soup) – แกงหน่อไม้ (Thai dish)
Photo: Isan1985, CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanSoup

Kaeng no mai (bamboo shoot soup)

แกงหน่อไม้ · kaeng no mai

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Soup of bamboo shoots with yanang leaf juice, pla ra and herbs. Green and earthy.

Ingredients

  • bamboo shoots
  • yanang leaf
  • pla ra
  • chilli

📖 View the recipe SBS Food
Second recipe: Wongnai ▶ VideoHomeMadeByKaysone lao Kitchen ໄກສອນ ຄົວລາວ

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Ubon Ratchathani
Where to eat
Isan markets in the rainy season.
Koi pla (raw fish salad) – ก้อยปลา (Thai dish)
Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Koi pla (raw fish salad)

ก้อยปลา · koi pla

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

⚠️ Health warning: raw freshwater fish. Real risk of liver fluke (Opisthorchis), linked to bile duct cancer. We advise against eating it.

Raw freshwater fish with lime, chilli and herbs. Traditional but risky.

Ingredients

  • raw fish
  • lime
  • chilli
  • toasted rice powder

📖 View the recipe SiamFishing (Thai) ▶ VideoRK Thai Kitchen

Recipe uses raw fish (health risk)
Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Not recommended (liver fluke risk).
Khao piak sen (thick rice noodle soup) – ข้าวเปียกเส้น (Thai dish)
Photo: Spencer, CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanNoodles

Khao piak sen (thick rice noodle soup)

ข้าวเปียกเส้น · khao piak sen

🌶️ mild

Thick, slightly starchy noodle soup with chicken or pork. Comfort food of Lao origin.

Ingredients

  • rice noodles
  • chicken
  • garlic
  • spring onion

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoHouse of X Tia

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Udon Thani
Where to eat
Morning stalls in Udon Thani and Nong Khai.
Kuai chap yuan (Vietnamese-style noodle soup) – ก๋วยจั๊บญวน (Thai dish)
Photo: Spencer, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Lao khao piak sen, near-identical to Isan kuay jap yuan
IsanNoodles

Kuai chap yuan (Vietnamese-style noodle soup)

ก๋วยจั๊บญวน · kuai chap yuan

○ not spicy

Soft rice-tapioca noodles in a mild broth with Vietnamese sausage. Popular in Ubon and Nong Khai.

Ingredients

  • rice noodles
  • moo yo sausage
  • pork
  • fried garlic

📖 View the recipe nlovecooking (Thai)
Second recipe: FoodieTaste ▶ VideoThai style by Au Jackie

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Ubon Ratchathani
Where to eat
Breakfast shops in Ubon Ratchathani.
Pla pao (salt-crusted grilled fish) – ปลาเผา (Thai dish)
Photo: Sharon Hahn Darlin, CC BY 2.0
IsanGrilled

Pla pao (salt-crusted grilled fish)

ปลาเผา · pla pao

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Tilapia stuffed with lemongrass, coated in salt and grilled. Served with noodles, vegetables and dip.

Ingredients

  • tilapia
  • salt
  • lemongrass
  • pandan

📖 View the recipe Eating Thai Food (Mark Wiens)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Markets and Isan grills.
Mu daet diao (sun-dried pork) – หมูแดดเดียว (Thai dish)
Photo: Vee Satayamas, CC BY 4.0
IsanStreet food & snacks

Mu daet diao (sun-dried pork)

หมูแดดเดียว · mu daet diao

○ not spicy

Pork dried in the sun for a day, then deep-fried. A popular beer snack.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • fish sauce
  • sesame

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoThai Cookbook TV

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Markets and Isan bars.
Khao chi (grilled egg sticky rice) – ข้าวจี่ (Thai dish)
Photo: Isan1985, CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanGrilled

Khao chi (grilled egg sticky rice)

ข้าวจี่ · khao chi

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Sticky rice ball brushed with egg and grilled over charcoal. A simple breakfast.

Ingredients

  • sticky rice
  • egg
  • salt

📖 View the recipe ImportFood ▶ Videoยายแต้วครัวคำโตโต (Thai)

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Isan morning markets.
ปลาส้มNo photo yet
IsanStreet food & snacks

Pla som (fermented sour fish)

ปลาส้ม · pla som

🌶️ mild

Fish fermented with rice and garlic, then fried. Sour and crispy.

Ingredients

  • fish
  • rice
  • garlic
  • salt

📖 View the recipe Hungry in Thailand
Second recipe: KRUA.CO ▶ VideoThanarat Beppler​

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Isan markets.
Tam taeng (cucumber salad) – ตำแตง (Thai dish)
Photo: Vee Satayamas, CC BY 4.0
IsanSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Tam taeng (cucumber salad)

ตำแตง · tam taeng

🌶️🌶️ spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Som tam made with cucumber instead of papaya. Fresh and crunchy.

Ingredients

  • cucumber
  • chilli
  • lime
  • fish sauce

📖 View the recipe Taste of Siam
Second recipe: Wongnai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Som tam stalls.
Sato (Thai rice wine) – สาโท (Thai dish)
Photo: Crcolas, CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanDrink

Sato (Thai rice wine)

สาโท · sato

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

⚠️ Note: alcoholic drink (rice wine).

Traditional, slightly sweet rice wine made from sticky rice. Brewed for festivals in Isan.

Ingredients

  • glutinous rice
  • starter yeast

📖 View the recipe Craft Beer & Brewing
Second recipe: KRUA.CO ▶ Videoกุ๊กไก่ channel (Thai)

Home-brewing recipe for alcoholic rice wine
Region
Northeast (Isan) · Nakhon Ratchasima
Where to eat
Village festivals, OTOP shops.
Yam khai mot daeng (red ant egg salad) – ยำไข่มดแดง (Thai dish)
Photo: Wittayawatfirst, CC BY-SA 4.0
IsanSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Yam khai mot daeng (red ant egg salad)

ยำไข่มดแดง · yam khai mot daeng

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Salad of weaver ant larvae with herbs, lime and chilli. Seasonal delicacy in March-April.

Ingredients

  • ant larvae
  • shallot
  • lime
  • chilli
  • mint

📖 View the recipe Mahidol University INMU (Thai)
Second recipe: Mor Chao Baan Foundation ▶ Videoเข้าครัวทํากิน Enter the kitchen (Thai)

Region
Northeast (Isan) · Khon Kaen
Where to eat
Isan markets in the dry season.
Tom yum goong – ต้มยำกุ้ง (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralSoup

Tom yum goong

ต้มยำกุ้ง · tom yam kung

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Clear or creamy soup with prawns, lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime leaves. Hot, sour and world-famous.

Ingredients

  • prawns
  • lemongrass
  • galangal
  • kaffir lime leaf
  • lime
  • chilli

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Everywhere in Bangkok.
Phat kaphrao (holy basil stir-fry) – ผัดกะเพรา (Thai dish)
Photo: Iudexvivorum, CC0
CentralStir-fry

Phat kaphrao (holy basil stir-fry)

ผัดกะเพรา · phat kaphrao

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Minced meat stir-fried with holy basil and chilli. Served over rice with a fried egg: the classic lunch.

Ingredients

  • minced meat
  • holy basil
  • chilli
  • garlic
  • oyster sauce

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu) ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Every food stall in Bangkok.
Green curry – แกงเขียวหวาน (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralCurry

Green curry

แกงเขียวหวาน · kaeng khiao wan

🌶️🌶️ spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Coconut curry with green chilli paste, Thai eggplant and sweet basil. Often with chicken.

Ingredients

  • green curry paste
  • coconut milk
  • chicken
  • Thai eggplant
  • basil

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Temple of Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Curry-and-rice shops (khao kaeng) in Bangkok.
Tom kha kai – ต้มข่าไก่ (Thai dish)
Photo: Evan Joshua Swigart (TheCulinaryGeek) from Chicago, Illinois, CC BY 2.0
CentralSoup

Tom kha kai

ต้มข่าไก่ · tom kha kai

🌶️ mild · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Mild coconut milk soup with chicken and galangal. Soft, fresh and slightly sour.

Ingredients

  • coconut milk
  • chicken
  • galangal
  • lemongrass
  • kaffir lime leaf

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu) ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Restaurants in Bangkok.
Pad thai – ผัดไทย (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralNoodles

Pad thai

ผัดไทย · phat thai

🌶️ mild · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Stir-fried rice noodles with tamarind, egg, tofu, shrimp and peanuts. A national symbol since the 1940s.

Ingredients

  • rice noodles
  • tamarind
  • egg
  • tofu
  • shrimp
  • bean sprouts
  • peanuts

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Thipsamai (Bangkok) is famous.
Red curry – แกงเผ็ด (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralCurry

Red curry

แกงเผ็ด · kaeng phet

🌶️🌶️ spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Coconut curry with red chilli paste, often with duck or chicken. Rich and spicy.

Ingredients

  • red curry paste
  • coconut milk
  • duck/chicken
  • bamboo
  • basil

📖 View the recipe Temple of Thai
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Curry restaurants in Bangkok.
Phanaeng curry – แกงพะแนง (Thai dish)
Photo: Vee Satayamas from Bangkok, Thailand, CC BY 2.0
CentralCurry

Phanaeng curry

แกงพะแนง · kaeng phanaeng

🌶️ mild

Thick, sweetish curry with a peanut aroma, often with beef. Little sauce.

Ingredients

  • phanaeng paste
  • coconut cream
  • beef
  • kaffir lime leaf

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ VideoTomjoke (Thai)

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Restaurants in Bangkok.
Khao man kai (Hainanese chicken rice) – ข้าวมันไก่ (Thai dish)
Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Terence assumed (based , CC BY 2.5
CentralRice dish

Khao man kai (Hainanese chicken rice)

ข้าวมันไก่ · khao man kai

🌶️ mild

Poached chicken on rice cooked in chicken stock, with ginger-soy sauce. Of Hainanese origin.

Ingredients

  • chicken
  • rice
  • ginger
  • garlic
  • soybean sauce

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Eating Thai Food (Mark Wiens) ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Go-Ang Pratunam (Bangkok).
Khao phat (Thai fried rice) – ข้าวผัด (Thai dish)
Photo: en:User:Jazzcello, CC BY 2.5
CentralRice dish

Khao phat (Thai fried rice)

ข้าวผัด · khao phat

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Fried rice with egg, onion and meat or shrimp, served with lime and cucumber. Simple and everywhere.

Ingredients

  • rice
  • egg
  • onion
  • fish sauce
  • shrimp/chicken

📖 View the recipe ImportFood ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Every food stall.
Boat noodles – ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ (Thai dish)
Photo: Flickr user Alpha, CC BY-SA 2.0
CentralNoodles

Boat noodles

ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ · kuai tiao ruea

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Small bowls of noodle soup with dark, spiced broth, often thickened with blood. Once sold from boats.

Ingredients

  • rice noodles
  • beef/pork
  • blood
  • star anise
  • bean sprouts

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Ayutthaya
Where to eat
Victory Monument (Bangkok) or Ayutthaya.
Phat si-io – ผัดซีอิ๊ว (Thai dish)
Photo: stu_spivack, CC BY-SA 2.0
CentralNoodles

Phat si-io

ผัดซีอิ๊ว · phat si-io

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Wide rice noodles stir-fried with dark soy sauce, egg and Chinese broccoli. Lightly smoky.

Ingredients

  • wide rice noodles
  • soy sauce
  • egg
  • Chinese broccoli
  • pork/chicken

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu) ▶ VideoThai Recipe Review (Thai)

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Noodle stalls in Bangkok.
Rat na (noodles in gravy) – ราดหน้า (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralNoodles

Rat na (noodles in gravy)

ราดหน้า · rat na

○ not spicy

Seared wide noodles topped with a thickened gravy with greens and meat.

Ingredients

  • wide rice noodles
  • Chinese broccoli
  • pork
  • soybean paste

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Chinatown (Yaowarat), Bangkok.
Yam wun sen (glass noodle salad) – ยำวุ้นเส้น (Thai dish)
Photo: Haam819, CC BY-SA 4.0
CentralSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Yam wun sen (glass noodle salad)

ยำวุ้นเส้น · yam wun sen

🌶️🌶️ spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Glass noodles with minced pork, shrimp, lime and chilli. Fresh and light.

Ingredients

  • glass noodles
  • minced pork
  • shrimp
  • lime
  • chilli
  • celery

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Restaurants in Bangkok.
Mu ping (grilled pork skewers) – หมูปิ้ง (Thai dish)
Photo: Phoebus 28, CC BY-SA 4.0
CentralGrilled

Mu ping (grilled pork skewers)

หมูปิ้ง · mu ping

○ not spicy

Sweetly marinated pork skewers from the charcoal grill, with sticky rice. A typical breakfast.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • coconut milk
  • garlic
  • palm sugar

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoCook Thai with Mumu

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Morning carts in Bangkok.
Mango sticky rice – ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง (Thai dish)
Photo: Dennis Wong from Hong Kong, Hong Kong, CC BY 2.0
CentralDessert

Mango sticky rice

ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง · khao niao mamuang

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Sweet sticky rice with coconut milk and fresh mango. Best in mango season (March-May).

Ingredients

  • sticky rice
  • coconut milk
  • mango
  • sugar
  • mung beans

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Mae Varee (Thonglor, Bangkok).
Thai iced tea – ชาเย็น (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralDrink

Thai iced tea

ชาเย็น · cha yen

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Strong orange tea with condensed milk over ice. Sweet and creamy.

Ingredients

  • black tea
  • condensed milk
  • sugar
  • ice

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Every drink stall.
Kluai buat chi (bananas in coconut milk) – กล้วยบวชชี (Thai dish)
Photo: Susan Slater, CC BY-SA 4.0
CentralDessert

Kluai buat chi (bananas in coconut milk)

กล้วยบวชชี · kluai buat chi

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Bananas simmered in sweet, slightly salty coconut milk. Eaten warm.

Ingredients

  • banana
  • coconut milk
  • sugar
  • salt

📖 View the recipe SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu) ▶ VideoAnchalee's Thai Kitchen | Exquisite Thai Cooking

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Dessert stalls.
Khanom krok (coconut pudding cups) – ขนมครก (Thai dish)
Photo: Boonlert, CC0
CentralStreet food & snacks

Khanom krok (coconut pudding cups)

ขนมครก · khanom khrok

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Small half-round coconut-rice cakes from a cast-iron pan. Crispy outside, soft inside.

Ingredients

  • rice flour
  • coconut milk
  • sugar
  • spring onion

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoMalinee Channel

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Morning markets.
Thapthim krop (red rubies) – ทับทิมกรอบ (Thai dish)
Photo: Isriya Paireepairit from Sheffield, United Kingdom, CC BY 2.0
CentralDessert

Thapthim krop (red rubies)

ทับทิมกรอบ · thapthim krop

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Water chestnut cubes coated in red tapioca, in coconut milk with ice. Crunchy and cooling.

Ingredients

  • water chestnut
  • tapioca flour
  • coconut milk
  • ice

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Dessert stalls in Bangkok.
Khao kha mu (stewed pork leg on rice) – ข้าวขาหมู (Thai dish)
Photo: Amin, CC BY-SA 4.0
CentralRice dish

Khao kha mu (stewed pork leg on rice)

ข้าวขาหมู · khao kha mu

🌶️ mild

Pork leg stewed in soy sauce and five-spice, on rice with egg and pickled greens.

Ingredients

  • pork leg
  • soy sauce
  • five-spice
  • egg
  • pickled mustard greens

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoThai Cookbook TV

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Charoen Saeng Silom (Bangkok).
Hoi thot (oyster omelette) – หอยทอด (Thai dish)
Photo: Archon6812, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralStreet food & snacks

Hoi thot (oyster omelette)

หอยทอด · hoi thot

○ not spicy

Crispy omelette with oysters or mussels from a griddle, with bean sprouts and chilli sauce.

Ingredients

  • oysters/mussels
  • egg
  • tapioca flour
  • bean sprouts

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoNin is Cooking

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Chinatown (Yaowarat), Bangkok.
Phat phak bung fai daeng (morning glory) – ผัดผักบุ้งไฟแดง (Thai dish)
Photo: Andy Li, CC0
CentralStir-fry

Phat phak bung fai daeng (morning glory)

ผัดผักบุ้งไฟแดง · phat phak bung fai daeng

🌶️ mild · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Water spinach flash-fried over high heat with garlic and chilli. 'Fai daeng' means red fire.

Ingredients

  • water spinach
  • garlic
  • chilli
  • oyster sauce
  • soybean paste

📖 View the recipe SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu)
Second recipe: Thai Food Guide ▶ Videopapeega Channel (Thai)

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Every Thai restaurant.
Thot man pla (fish cakes) – ทอดมันปลา (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralStreet food & snacks

Thot man pla (fish cakes)

ทอดมันปลา · thot man pla

🌶️ mild

Deep-fried fish cakes with red curry paste and long beans, with cucumber dip.

Ingredients

  • fish paste
  • red curry paste
  • long beans
  • kaffir lime leaf

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Markets in Bangkok.
Miang kham (leaf-wrapped snack) – เมี่ยงคำ (Thai dish)
Photo: Jpatokal, CC BY-SA 4.0
CentralStreet food & snacks

Miang kham (leaf-wrapped snack)

เมี่ยงคำ · miang kham

🌶️ mild

A leaf filled with ginger, shallot, lime, peanut, coconut and sweet sauce, eaten in one bite.

Ingredients

  • wild betel leaf
  • ginger
  • shallot
  • lime
  • peanut
  • toasted coconut

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Rachel Cooks Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Bangkok
Where to eat
Markets and restaurants in Bangkok.
Foi thong (golden threads) – ฝอยทอง (Thai dish)
Photo: LipeFontoura, Public domain
CentralDessert

Foi thong (golden threads)

ฝอยทอง · foi thong

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Threads of egg yolk cooked in sugar syrup. A Portuguese-inspired dessert from the Ayutthaya period.

Ingredients

  • egg yolk
  • sugar
  • jasmine water

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ Video胖妞 Lifestyle

Region
Central / Bangkok · Ayutthaya
Where to eat
Dessert shops in Ayutthaya and Phetchaburi.
Kaeng som / kaeng lueang (southern sour curry) – แกงเหลือง (Thai dish)
Photo: Xufanc, CC BY-SA 3.0
SouthCurry

Kaeng som / kaeng lueang (southern sour curry)

แกงเหลือง · kaeng lueang

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Sour, very spicy curry with turmeric, fish and vegetables such as papaya or bamboo. In the south it is called 'kaeng lueang' (yellow curry).

Ingredients

  • fish
  • turmeric
  • tamarind
  • chilli
  • bamboo/papaya

📖 View the recipe SheSimmers (Leela Punyaratabandhu)
Second recipe: Eating Thai Food (Mark Wiens) ▶ VideoKRUA dot CO (Thai)

Region
South · Nakhon Si Thammarat
Where to eat
Southern restaurants, e.g. in Nakhon Si Thammarat.
Khua kling (dry curry) – คั่วกลิ้ง (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
SouthCurry

Khua kling (dry curry)

คั่วกลิ้ง · khua kling

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Minced meat dry-fried with a very hot curry paste, turmeric and kaffir lime leaves. No sauce, served with rice.

Ingredients

  • minced pork/beef
  • curry paste
  • turmeric
  • kaffir lime leaf

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Eating Thai Food (Mark Wiens) ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
South · Surat Thani
Where to eat
Southern Thai restaurants.
Massaman curry – แกงมัสมั่น (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
CentralCurry

Massaman curry

แกงมัสมั่น · kaeng matsaman

🌶️ mild

Mild, rich curry with cardamom, cinnamon, potato and peanuts. Persian-Muslim influence.

Originated at the Ayutthaya royal court with Persian influence; later embraced by the Muslim cuisine of the south.

Ingredients

  • beef/chicken
  • coconut milk
  • potato
  • peanuts
  • cardamom
  • cinnamon

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Temple of Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
Central / Bangkok · Ayutthaya
Where to eat
Thai-Muslim restaurants.
Kaeng tai pla – แกงไตปลา (Thai dish)
Photo: Xufanc, CC BY-SA 3.0
SouthCurry

Kaeng tai pla

แกงไตปลา · kaeng tai pla

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Powerful curry of fermented fish innards with vegetables and grilled fish. Very southern and spicy.

Ingredients

  • fermented fish innards
  • bamboo
  • eggplant
  • turmeric

📖 View the recipe ImportFood ▶ VideoRK Thai Kitchen

Region
South · Nakhon Si Thammarat
Where to eat
Curry-and-rice shops in the south.
Khao yam (southern rice salad) – ข้าวยำ (Thai dish)
Photo: Gunawan Kartapranata, CC BY-SA 3.0
SouthSalad (yam/tam/larb)

Khao yam (southern rice salad)

ข้าวยำ · khao yam

🌶️ mild

Rice with herbs, toasted coconut, pomelo and budu sauce. Colourful and fresh.

Ingredients

  • rice
  • budu
  • toasted coconut
  • pomelo
  • lemongrass
  • herbs

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
South · Nakhon Si Thammarat
Where to eat
Morning markets in the south.
Khanom chin nam ya – ขนมจีนน้ำยา (Thai dish)
Photo: User:Mattes, Public domain
SouthNoodles

Khanom chin nam ya

ขนมจีนน้ำยา · khanom chin nam ya

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Fresh rice noodles with fish curry; in the south served with plenty of fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

  • rice noodles
  • fish
  • coconut milk
  • curry paste
  • vegetables

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Eating Thai Food (Mark Wiens) ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
South · Phuket
Where to eat
Breakfast shops in Phuket.
หมูย่างเมืองตรังNo photo yet
SouthGrilled

Trang roast pork

หมูย่างเมืองตรัง · mu yang mueang trang

○ not spicy

Whole roast pig with crispy skin marinated in five-spice. A breakfast classic in Trang.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • five-spice
  • honey

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoFoodTravel Plus (Thai)

Region
South · Trang
Where to eat
Dim sum breakfast shops in Trang.
Roti (Thai-style roti) – โรตี (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
SouthDessert

Roti (Thai-style roti)

โรตี · roti

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Thin pan-fried flatbread, often with banana, egg and condensed milk. Also savoury with curry.

Ingredients

  • flour
  • butter
  • banana
  • egg
  • condensed milk

📖 View the recipe Temple of Thai
Second recipe: ImportFood ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
South · Hat Yai
Where to eat
Muslim roti stalls everywhere.
Satay – สะเต๊ะ (Thai dish)
Photo: Gunawan Kartapranata, CC BY-SA 4.0
SouthGrilled

Satay

สะเต๊ะ · sate

🌶️ mild

Grilled skewers marinated in turmeric and coconut, with peanut sauce and relish.

Ingredients

  • pork/chicken
  • turmeric
  • coconut milk
  • peanut sauce

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Temple of Thai ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
South · Pattani
Where to eat
Street stalls.
Khao mok kai (Thai chicken biryani) – ข้าวหมกไก่ (Thai dish)
Photo: Shyamveer.singh1982, CC BY-SA 4.0
SouthRice dish

Khao mok kai (Thai chicken biryani)

ข้าวหมกไก่ · khao mok kai

🌶️ mild

Yellow spiced rice with chicken, fried shallots and a sweet-sour mint sauce. Thai-Muslim.

Ingredients

  • rice
  • chicken
  • turmeric
  • curry powder
  • shallot

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant)
Second recipe: Eating Thai Food (Mark Wiens) ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
South · Pattani
Where to eat
Muslim eateries.
Kai kolae – ไก่กอและ (Thai dish)
Photo: Unilokman25, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Malaysian ayam percik, the same dish as kai kolae
SouthGrilled

Kai kolae

ไก่กอและ · kai kolae

🌶️ mild

Grilled chicken basted with a thick red coconut curry sauce. A specialty of the Malay Muslims of the deep south.

Ingredients

  • chicken
  • coconut milk
  • chilli
  • tamarind

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ VideoPailin's Kitchen

Region
South · Pattani
Where to eat
Markets in Pattani and Narathiwat.
Phat sato (stink beans with shrimp) – ผัดสะตอกุ้ง (Thai dish)
Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0
SouthStir-fry

Phat sato (stink beans with shrimp)

ผัดสะตอกุ้ง · phat sato kung

🌶️🌶️🌶️ very spicy

Bitter sator (stink) beans stir-fried with shrimp and chilli paste.

Ingredients

  • stink beans
  • shrimp
  • shrimp paste
  • chilli

📖 View the recipe Eating Thai Food (Mark Wiens) ▶ Videoกินได้อร่อยด้วย (Thai)

Region
South · Surat Thani
Where to eat
Southern Thai restaurants.
Mee Hokkien (Phuket noodles) – หมี่ฮกเกี้ยน (Thai dish)
Photo: Jpatokal, CC BY-SA 4.0
SouthNoodles

Mee Hokkien (Phuket noodles)

หมี่ฮกเกี้ยน · mi hokkian

○ not spicy

Thick yellow noodles fried with seafood, pork and greens. Peranakan heritage of Phuket.

Ingredients

  • yellow noodles
  • seafood
  • pork
  • egg
  • greens

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ VideoDarika (Thai)

Region
South · Phuket
Where to eat
Phuket Old Town.
หมูฮ้องNo photo yet
SouthCurry

Mu hong (Phuket braised pork belly)

หมูฮ้อง · mu hong

○ not spicy

Pork belly braised with soy sauce, garlic and pepper. A Peranakan stew.

Ingredients

  • pork belly
  • soy sauce
  • garlic
  • pepper

📖 View the recipe Hot Thai Kitchen (Pailin Chongchitnant) ▶ VideoThai Cookbook TV

Region
South · Phuket
Where to eat
Restaurants in Phuket Old Town.
O-tao (Phuket oyster omelette) – โอต้าว (Thai dish)
Photo: Night Tracks at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0
SouthStreet food & snacks

O-tao (Phuket oyster omelette)

โอต้าว · o tao

○ not spicy

Phuket's oyster omelette with taro and small oysters.

Ingredients

  • oysters
  • taro
  • egg
  • bean sprouts

📖 View the recipe Thai Food Guide ▶ Videoครัวบ้านสวนทวี - Baan Suan Tawee Cooking (Thai)

Region
South · Phuket
Where to eat
Night markets in Phuket.
Crab curry with wild betel leaves – แกงปูใบชะพลู (Thai dish)
Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0
SouthCurry

Crab curry with wild betel leaves

แกงปูใบชะพลู · kaeng pu bai chaphlu

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Coconut curry with crab meat, rice noodles and wild betel leaves. A Phuket favourite.

Ingredients

  • crab
  • coconut milk
  • wild betel leaf
  • curry paste

📖 View the recipe Phol Food Mafia
Second recipe: KRUA.CO ▶ VideoKRUA dot CO (Thai)

Region
South · Phuket
Where to eat
Restaurants in Phuket.
ขนมลาNo photo yet
SouthDessert

Khanom la

ขนมลา · khanom la

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

A fine web of rice-flour threads fried into thin sheets. Made for the Sart Duean Sib festival in Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Ingredients

  • rice flour
  • palm sugar
  • oil

📖 View the recipe Aroifin (Thai) ▶ VideoNatCreators (Thai)

Region
South · Nakhon Si Thammarat
Where to eat
Souvenir shops in Nakhon Si Thammarat.
Cha chak (pulled tea) – ชาชัก (Thai dish)
Photo: Wiki Asmah, CC BY-SA 4.0
SouthDrink

Cha chak (pulled tea)

ชาชัก · cha chak

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Sweet milk tea 'pulled' between jugs until frothy. Popular in Muslim tea shops.

Ingredients

  • black tea
  • condensed milk

📖 View the recipe KRUA.CO (Thai) ▶ VideoKRUA dot CO (Thai)

Region
South · Hat Yai
Where to eat
Tea shops in Hat Yai.
Bai liang stir-fried with egg – ใบเหลียงผัดไข่ (Thai dish)
Photo: Wiki Farazi, CC0
SouthStir-fry

Bai liang stir-fried with egg

ใบเหลียงผัดไข่ · bai liang phat khai

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Young Gnetum leaves stir-fried with egg. A simple southern vegetable dish.

Ingredients

  • Gnetum leaves
  • egg
  • garlic
  • oyster sauce

📖 View the recipe Wongnai (Thai)
Second recipe: KRUA.CO ▶ Videoโชเล่ย์ ดอกกระโดน (Thai)

Region
South · Surat Thani
Where to eat
Southern Thai eateries.
Budu (fermented fish sauce) – บูดู (Thai dish)
Photo: Yosri at ms.wikipedia, GFDL
SouthDip & side dish

Budu (fermented fish sauce)

บูดู · budu

○ not spicy

Thick, salty sauce of fermented anchovies. The base of khao yam.

Ingredients

  • anchovies
  • salt
  • palm sugar

📖 View the recipe GotoKnow (Thai)
Second recipe: Thai Taste Therapy ▶ VideoKrua Tua Lek ครัวตัวเล็ก (Thai)

Recipe for budu sauce for khao yam (budu itself is fermented fish)
Region
South · Pattani
Where to eat
Markets in Pattani and Narathiwat.
Pla thot khamin (turmeric fried fish) – ปลาทอดขมิ้น (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
SouthStreet food & snacks

Pla thot khamin (turmeric fried fish)

ปลาทอดขมิ้น · pla thot khamin

○ not spicy

Fish marinated in turmeric and garlic, fried until crisp.

Ingredients

  • fish
  • turmeric
  • garlic

📖 View the recipe Eating Thai Food (Mark Wiens) ▶ VideoMark Wiens

Region
South · Phuket
Where to eat
Southern restaurants.
Loba (Phuket fried snacks) – โลบะ (Thai dish)
Photo: chee.hong, CC BY 2.0
SouthStreet food & snacks

Loba (Phuket fried snacks)

โลบะ · loba

○ not spicy

Deep-fried pork rolls, tofu and offal with sweet sauce. Hokkien heritage of Phuket.

Ingredients

  • pork
  • tofu
  • five-spice
  • bean curd skin

📖 View the recipe Triplandio ▶ Videoจี้เพ็ก สองแม่ลูกเข้าครัว (Thai)

Region
South · Phuket
Where to eat
Phuket Old Town.
Khao tom mat / khanom tom (southern) – ข้าวต้มมัด (Thai dish)
Photo: Picklish at English Wikipedia, Public domain
SouthDessert

Khao tom mat / khanom tom (southern)

ข้าวต้มมัด · khao tom mat

○ not spicy · 🌱 Vegetarian possible

Sticky rice with coconut and banana wrapped in leaves and boiled. Important at the southern Chak Phra festival.

Ingredients

  • sticky rice
  • coconut milk
  • banana
  • leaves

📖 View the recipe ImportFood
Second recipe: Thai Food Guide ▶ Videoสาวใต้สายกิน dada cooking eating (Thai)

Recipe is khao tom mat (banana in sticky rice), not specifically the southern Chak Phra version
Region
South · Surat Thani
Where to eat
Chak Phra festival in Surat Thani (October).
Nam phrik kung siap (smoked shrimp dip) – น้ำพริกกุ้งเสียบ (Thai dish)
Photo: Takeaway, CC BY-SA 3.0
SouthDip & side dish

Nam phrik kung siap (smoked shrimp dip)

น้ำพริกกุ้งเสียบ · nam phrik kung siap

🌶️🌶️ spicy

Chilli dip with skewered smoked shrimp (kung siap), a Phuket specialty.

Ingredients

  • smoked shrimp
  • chilli
  • lime
  • shallot

📖 View the recipe KRUA.CO (Thai)
Second recipe: Wongnai ▶ VideoTidReview ชีวิตติดรีวิว (Thai)

Region
South · Phuket
Where to eat
Markets in Phuket.

The best places to eat Thai food

Markets and streets where local food is at its best. Times are approximate.

Bangkok

Yaowarat (Chinatown)

Street food along Yaowarat Road: seafood, guay jab noodles and desserts.

Best time: 18:00–23:00, not Mondays (many stalls closed)

Bangkok

Or Tor Kor Market

Clean covered market with top fruit, curries and ready-made dishes.

Best time: 08:00–14:00

Bangkok

Victory Monument (boatnoodles)

Tiny bowls of boat noodles by the canal; order several.

Best time: 11:00–20:00

Bangkok

Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin

Big night market with food, vintage and live music.

Best time: Thu–Sun 17:00–midnight

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya Night Market

Roti sai mai and noodles next to the temple ruins.

Best time: 17:00–21:00

Chiang Mai

Sunday Walking Street

Ratchadamnoen Road in the old city: khao soi, sai ua and snacks.

Best time: Sunday 16:00–23:00

Chiang Mai

Warorot Market (Kad Luang)

Northern specialities like nam prik noom and kaep moo to take away.

Best time: 06:00–18:00

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai Night Bazaar

Food court with jim jum hotpot and northern dishes.

Best time: 18:00–23:00

Khon Kaen

Ton Tann Market

Modern night market: som tam, gai yang and larb from Isaan.

Best time: 17:00–23:00

Udon Thani

Udon Thani Night Market

Local Isaan cooking near the station.

Best time: 17:00–23:00

Phuket

Phuket Old Town Sunday Market (Lard Yai)

Thalang Road: mee hokkien, o-tao and southern snacks.

Best time: Sunday 16:00–22:00

Hat Yai

Hat Yai Greenway / Kim Yong Market

Hat Yai fried chicken, roti and dim sum.

Best time: 17:00–23:00 (Kim Yong by day)

Krabi

Krabi Town Walking Street

Weekend night market with southern curries and seafood.

Best time: Fri–Sun 17:00–22:00

Hua Hin

Hua Hin Night Market

Fresh grilled seafood and mango sticky rice.

Best time: 18:00–23:00

Hua Hin

Cicada Market

Weekend open-air market with art and food.

Best time: Fri–Sun 16:00–23:00

Frequently asked questions about Thai food

What are the most famous Thai dishes?

Pad thai, tom yum kung, green curry, som tam, massaman, khao soi and mango sticky rice (khao niao mamuang) are the best known. This guide covers 100, across four regions.

Is Thai food always spicy?

No. Many dishes are mild, such as khao man kai, pad see ew and most desserts. Ask for 'mai phet' (not spicy) or 'phet nit noi' (a little spicy). Every dish here shows its spice level.

Can you eat vegetarian in Thailand?

Yes, but watch out for fish sauce and shrimp paste. Say 'kin jay' (vegan, in the Chinese jay tradition) or 'mai sai nam pla' (no fish sauce). Each dish in this guide shows whether a vegetarian version is possible.

Is street food in Thailand safe?

Usually, yes. Choose busy stalls that cook fresh, and be careful with raw dishes such as koi pla and larb lu, which carry a real health risk.

Where is the best street food in Bangkok?

Yaowarat (Chinatown) in the evening, Or Tor Kor Market for quality, and Victory Monument for boat noodles. The map shows more spots across Thailand.

Texts are compiled from general sources and reviewed by us. Dishes without a free photo show an illustration as a placeholder.