13 Thai dishes to try in Thailand: A blog about traditional Thai dishes that you should try when visiting.

Platters of Thai dishes

Introduction: Thailand is known for its delicious and exotic cuisine that is rich in flavors, spices, and colors. Thai food is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, and it is not surprising that it has become increasingly popular worldwide. When you visit Thailand, you should not miss the chance to try out the traditional Thai dishes. In this blog, we have listed the 13 best Thai dishes that you must try when visiting Thailand.

History: Thai cuisine has its roots in the 13th century when Thailand was ruled by the Sukhothai Kingdom. Thai cuisine has been heavily influenced by the cuisines of India, China, and other Southeast Asian countries. The Thai cuisine we know today is a fusion of these influences and is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Origin: Most of the traditional Thai dishes were developed in different regions of Thailand. For example, Pad Thai originated in central Thailand, while Som Tam originated in northeastern Thailand. The dishes have become so popular that they can now be found in restaurants throughout the country and around the world.

Ingredients: Thai dishes are known for their use of fresh herbs and spices such as lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime, and coriander. Other ingredients that are commonly used include coconut milk, fish sauce, chili, and tamarind. Thai dishes also use a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables.

Preparation time: The preparation time for Thai dishes can vary depending on the complexity of the dish. Some dishes, such as Tom Yum Soup, can be prepared quickly, while others, like Massaman Curry, require more time and effort.

Cooking time: The cooking time for Thai dishes can also vary depending on the dish. Stir-fried dishes such as Pad Thai can be cooked in just a few minutes, while curries like Panang Curry can take up to an hour to cook.

13 Thai dishes to try in Thailand:

  1. Pad Thai – A stir-fried noodle dish made with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts.
  2. Tom Yum Soup – A spicy and sour soup made with shrimp or chicken, lemongrass, and chili.
  3. Som Tam – A spicy green papaya salad with tomatoes, peanuts, and lime juice.
  4. Massaman Curry – A rich and flavorful curry made with beef or chicken, potatoes, and peanuts.
  5. Khao Pad – Fried rice with egg, meat, and vegetables.
  6. Green Curry – A spicy curry made with coconut milk, green chilies, and meat or seafood.
  7. Laab – A spicy minced meat salad with mint, chili, and lime juice.
  8. Gaeng Keow Wan – A mild green curry made with coconut milk, green chilies, and chicken or beef.
  9. Pad See Ew – Stir-fried wide rice noodles with meat, egg, and vegetables.
  10. Khao Soi – A northern Thai noodle soup made with coconut milk, curry paste, and meat.
  11. Moo Ping – Grilled pork skewers marinated in a mixture of coconut milk and spices.
  12. Gai Yang – Grilled chicken marinated in a mixture of coconut milk and spices.
  13. Mango Sticky Rice – A dessert made with sticky rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk.

Conclusion: Thai cuisine is a delight for the senses, and these 13 dishes are just the tip of the iceberg. When you visit Thailand, make sure to explore the local street food markets and restaurants to discover even more delicious Thai dishes. These dishes are not only a reflection of the country’s rich history and culture but also a testament to the skill and creativity of Thai chefs. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer mild flavors, there is a Thai dish out there for everyone.

To make the most of your culinary adventure in Thailand, try to learn a few basic phrases in Thai to communicate with the locals and ask for recommendations. And don’t forget to take plenty of pictures to capture the vibrant colors and beautiful presentation of these dishes.

Overall, Thai cuisine is a must-try for foodies and travelers alike. So, pack your bags and head to Thailand to indulge in these 13 delicious and traditional Thai dishes. Happy eating!

Leave a Reply