Top 10 must-try Thai dishes when visiting Thailand!

Are you planning on taking a trip to Thailand soon? Discover AROI’s culinary guide with our top 10 Thai must-try dishes when visiting the Land of Smiles!

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1. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)

Get ready to spice up your Thai food adventure with Tom Yum Goong – the ultimate spicy shrimp soup that’s an absolute game-changer! Packed with a punch of lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chili, this soup is like a flavor explosion in your mouth. This dish is made of plump shrimp, mushrooms, and a bunch of fresh herbs all diving into a broth that’s part tangy, part spicy, and completely delicious. When you’re in Thailand, give Tom Yum Goong a shot – it’s the real deal, capturing the zesty and savory essence of Thai street food. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for this wild and tasty ride!

2. Pad Thai (Thai Stir-Fried Noodles)

You can’t visit Thailand without exploring the world of Pad Thai! It’s like the rockstar of street food – a stir-fried noodle dish that’s pure magic. Picture this: flat rice noodles getting cozy with shrimp, tofu, crunchy bean sprouts, and a generous sprinkle of crushed peanuts, all dancing in a sweet, savory, and tangy tamarind sauce. Pad Thai is basically a flavor party in your mouth! It’s the ultimate Thai comfort food, hitting you with the perfect combo of textures and tastes. So, when you’re in Thailand, make sure to grab a plate of Pad Thai – it’s not just a dish; it’s a taste of Thai street food awesomeness!

3. Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)

Next on our list is Som Tum, a Green Papaya Salad that has the perfect balance between spicy and tang! With crunchy shreds of green papaya, zesty lime, a kick of chili, fish sauce, and a hint of sweetness, this salad isn’t just a bunch of veggies; it’s a fresh and spicy adventure that screams Thai street food vibes. When you’re in Thailand, Som Tum is a game-changer and will become your go-to when you are craving a fresh and tasty meal!

4. Massaman Curry

Discover Massaman Curry, a royal Thai dish that marries tender meat, fragrant spices, and creamy coconut milk. The slow-cooked perfection of the meat, combined with the creaminess of coconut milk, creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent. Inspired by Eastern and Malay culinary traditions, Massaman Curry is the perfect occasion to explore Thailand’s diverse gastronomic heritage.

5. Khao Pad (Fried Rice)

Another one of the Thai classic street foods is Khao Pad, also known as fried rice. Made of jasmine rice, juicy meats, colorful veggies, and a bunch of spices all fried up to perfection… Khao Pad is a quick and satisfying dish that encapsulates the essence of Thai comfort food. Whether you’re team chicken, pork, shrimp, or the dream team combo (chicken and shrimp), this dish has your back. So, when you’re exploring the streets of Thailand, grab a plate of Khao Pad – it’s your ticket to the heart of Thai street food happiness – plus it is also not spicy hot!

6. Gaeng Keow Wan Gai (Green Curry Chicken)

Gaeng Keow Wan Gai, Green Curry in English, is a must-try when visiting Thailand. Indeed, it has the perfect combo between creamy and spicy that hits all the right notes. This soup is made of tender chicken, and coconut milk soup flavored with green curry spices alongside veggies, spicy green chilies, herbs, and more spices. This vibrant meal is accompanied by fragrant jasmine rice and is as delicious as good-looking! 

7. Gai Pad Krapow (Basil Chicken Stir-Fry)

Don’t miss out on Gai Pad Krapow, in English Basil Chicken Stir-Fry, one of the most popular Thai dishes… and we understand why! Made of juicy chicken, aromatic basil, and a fiery blend of garlic, chilies, and savory sauces all wok-tossed to perfection, your taste buds will be amazed by the burst of savory, spicy, and herbal taste of this dish. Trust us, you won’t want to pass up the chance to savor this legendary delight!

8. Pla Rad Prik (Fried Fish with Chili Sauce)

This one is for seafood enthusiasts as you will get the chance to indulge in Pla Rad Prik, also known as Fried Fish with chili sauce. This crispy fish, deep-fried to perfection, and then generously coated in a chili sauce reaches the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and spicy, creating a dish full of contrasts and flavors!

9. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers)

Craving a snack? Whether you are wandering the markets or you are just on a foodie mission, Moo Ping is the go-to street food. Enjoy juicy marinated pork skewers, sizzling on the grill, and coated in this sweet and savory glaze that’s pure flavor magic for your tastebuds!

10. Khao Niew Mamuang (Sticky Rice with Mango)

Conclude your Thai culinary journey on a sweet note with Khao Niew Mamuang, a dessert made of sticky rice and ripe mango infused with creamy coconut milk. Indulge your sweet tooth and immerse yourself in the rich and delightful world of Thai desserts!