Thailand on your plate: Local foods you must try
Thailand, the land of smiles, is known for a lot of attractions including its zesty local food. From savory snacks to sweet treats, the country boasts a fine spread of dishes replete with authentic Thai ingredients that will make your travel experience all the more flavorful. Let's take you on a virtual tour of five dishes that you must eat when in Thailand.
Tom yum soup
Tom yum is among the most popular and aromatic dishes in Thailand. Featuring shallots, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, chili, kaffir lime leaves, and various sauces, this soup is quite bold on the palate due to its spicy flavor. It also has mushrooms and is usually topped with a luscious drizzle of coconut cream to enhance its richness and thickness.
Pad Thai
Another dish that you must try in Thailand is Pad Thai. These are Thai-style fried noodles that are available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. It is flavorful, affordable, and easily available in every nook and cranny of the country owing to its popularity. The dish features crushed peanuts, with flat rice noodles stir-fried in a sweet-savory Thai sauce.
Khao pad
This is a Thai fried rice offering that is loaded with authentic Thai spices and herbs. It is a stir-fried dish cooked over high heat. It comes with a drizzle of lemon on jasmine rice that makes it oh-so-exotic. Garnished with slices of cucumber and some condiments to go with, you just can't leave the country without sampling this dish.
Kuay teow
Kuay teow (translated to rice cake strips) is a dish featuring noodles made with rice flour. It is generally sold in folded oiled sheets and can be easily sliced. A quick dish for locals, it also contains spring onions, cabbage, mushrooms, tofu, and a wide range of authentic Thai spices. You can easily find this dish at local streetside stalls and restaurants.
Khao soi/ khao soy
Add khao soi or khao soy, the creamy coconut curry noodle soup, to your must-try list. This Thai specialty boasts a coconut curry base with rich infusions of coconut milk, red curry paste, and aromatic spices. Simmered to perfection, it's served with crispy fried noodles, mustard greens, shallots, lime, and chilies. Hailing from northern Thailand, it offers the ideal sweet and spicy balance.