15 Best Thai Street Foods To Try In Thailand

Thailand is renowned for its vibrant and diverse street food culture, offering a tantalizing array of flavors and aromas that will leave you craving more. Exploring the streets of Thailand is a culinary adventure, where every corner is filled with food vendors skillfully preparing mouthwatering dishes that capture the essence of Thai cuisine. From fiery curries to savory noodles, and sweet treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth, the streets of Thailand are a food lover’s paradise.

In this article, we will take a closer look at 15 of the best Thai street foods that you must try when visiting this gastronomic wonderland. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors, there’s something for everyone on the streets of Thailand. So, prepare your taste buds for a journey through the bustling markets and roadside stalls as we dive into the delightful world of Thai street food.

Pad Thai

One of the most popular dishes in Thailand, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish seasoned with a tangy tamarind sauce, garnished with peanuts, and often served with shrimp or chicken. It is a harmonious combination of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.

Tom Yum Goong

A hot and sour soup, Tom Yum Goong is infused with fragrant herbs, lemongrass, chili peppers, and succulent shrimp. It offers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors, making it a true Thai comfort food.

Green Curry

Green Curry is a creamy and flavorful dish made with a paste of green chilies, lemongrass, galangal, and other aromatic herbs. It is traditionally cooked with tender chicken or beef, along with vegetables, and is best enjoyed with steamed jasmine rice.

Mango Sticky Rice

A beloved Thai dessert, Mango Sticky Rice pairs the sweetness of ripe mangoes with sticky glutinous rice drizzled with coconut milk. It is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Som Tam

Som Tam, also known as green papaya salad, is a refreshing and spicy salad made from shredded unripe papaya. It is typically mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, chili peppers, and crushed peanuts, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.

Satay

Satay is a popular street food snack consisting of skewered and grilled marinated meat, usually chicken or pork. It is served with a creamy peanut sauce, adding a delectable nutty flavor to the tender meat.

Pad Kra Pao

Pad Kra Pao, or Thai basil stir-fry, is a tantalizing dish made with minced meat (often pork or chicken), stir-fried with holy basil leaves, chili peppers, garlic, and soy sauce. It is commonly served with a fried egg on top and a side of jasmine rice.

Khao Soi

Hailing from the northern part of Thailand, Khao Soi is a rich and flavorful curry noodle soup. It combines tender chicken or beef with egg noodles, in a coconut curry broth and garnished with crispy fried noodles and fresh herbs.

Pad See Ew

Pad See Ew is a popular stir-fried noodle dish commonly made with wide rice noodles, soy sauce, and various vegetables. It is usually cooked with meat, such as chicken or beef, and provides a satisfying umami flavor.

Massaman Curry

Massaman Curry is a mild and fragrant curry dish influenced by Indian and Persian flavors. It typically features tender chunks of meat, such as beef or chicken, cooked with potatoes, peanuts, and a blend of aromatic spices.

Grilled Chicken (Gai Yang)

Gai Yang is a delicious and succulent grilled chicken dish marinated in a mixture of garlic, coriander roots, and fish sauce. It is often served with a spicy dipping sauce, cucumber relish, and sticky rice.

Banana Pancakes (Roti)

Roti, similar to banana pancakes, is a popular street food item made from a thin, crispy pancake filled with sliced bananas and drizzled with sweetened condensed milk. It is a delightful treat enjoyed any time of the day.

Thai Iced Tea

No Thai street food experience is complete without trying Thai Iced Tea. This sweet and creamy beverage blends black tea with condensed milk, creating a refreshing drink that is perfect for quenching your thirst.

Grilled Pork Skewers (Moo Ping)

Moo Ping is a popular street food snack consisting of tender and juicy marinated pork skewers, grilled to perfection. The smoky flavors of the grilled meat combined with the sweet and savory marinade make it an irresistible treat.

Kanom Krok

Kanom Krok, also known as coconut pancakes, are small bite-sized treats made from a batter of rice flour and coconut milk. These fluffy and slightly sweet pancakes have a crispy edge and a soft center, allowing you to savor a delightful combination of textures.

Conclusion

FAQs

1. What is Thai street food?

Thai street food refers to the wide variety of local dishes that are prepared and sold by vendors on the streets and in bustling markets across Thailand. These dishes are known for their bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and affordability.

2. Is Thai street food safe to eat?

Yes, Thai street food is generally safe to eat if you follow some basic guidelines. Look for stalls with a high turnover of customers, as this indicates that the food is fresh. Also, make sure the food is cooked thoroughly and served piping hot. Avoid eating raw or uncooked items and opt for bottled water or drinks from sealed containers to stay hydrated.

3. What are some must-try Thai street foods?

Some must-try Thai street foods include Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish with shrimp, chicken, or tofu; Som Tam, a spicy green papaya salad; Tom Yum Goong, a hot and sour shrimp soup; and Mango Sticky Rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert made with sticky rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk.

4. How much does Thai street food cost?

Thai street food is known for its affordability. Prices can vary depending on the location and type of dish, but you can expect to pay anywhere from 30 to 100 baht (approximately $1 to $3) for a delicious and filling meal.

5. Are there vegetarian options available in Thai street food?

Yes, vegetarian options are available in Thai street food. Some popular vegetarian dishes include Pad Thai Jay (vegetarian Pad Thai), Green Curry with tofu and vegetables, and Thai-style fried rice with vegetables. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the vendor about the ingredients to ensure that the dish is vegetarian-friendly.