Thailand is known for its breathtaking beaches, stunning temples, and vibrant culture. When it comes to food, Thailand is a paradise for travelers. From savory snacks to sweet desserts, there is something for every palate. If you’re planning on visiting Thailand, one thing you absolutely cannot miss out on is the street food. But with so many options to choose from, what are the best street foods for tourists in Thailand?
In this article, I will take a closer look at some of the best street food options in Thailand that are perfect for tourists.
Must-Try Street Foods in Thailand
Thailand is known for its rich and diverse street food scene, with vendors selling an array of delicious dishes on every corner. Here are some of the must-try street foods that you should add to your list when visiting Thailand:
Pad Thai
No trip to Thailand is complete without trying the iconic dish of pad thai. This stir-fried noodle dish is made with rice noodles, tofu, shrimp, egg, bean sprouts, and your choice of meat or seafood. It’s then flavored with a sweet and tangy sauce made from tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Pad thai is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a popular street food among locals and tourists alike.
You can find pad thai at almost any street food stall or restaurant in Thailand. However, some of the best places to try this dish include Thip Samai in Bangkok and Pad Thai Mae Am in Chiang Mai.
Tom Yum Soup
Tom yum soup is another popular dish in Thailand, known for its spicy and sour flavors. The base of the soup is made from a combination of lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers. It’s then filled with your choice of meat or seafood, mushrooms, and sometimes noodles.
This hot and spicy soup is often served as an appetizer or alongside other dishes such as pad thai. It’s also believed to have medicinal properties due to its use of herbs and spices.
You can find tom yum soup at most Thai restaurants, as it is a staple dish in the country. But for a truly authentic experience, try it from street vendors or in local markets. You can also find variations of this soup in neighboring countries such as Laos and Cambodia.
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Khao Pad (Fried Rice)
Khao pad, or fried rice, is a beloved dish in Thailand and can be found on almost every street corner. It’s a simple yet flavorful combination of rice stir-fried with garlic, vegetables, egg, and your choice of meat such as chicken or shrimp.
In addition to its delicious taste, fried rice is also an economical option for locals and tourists alike. It’s often served with a side of cucumber slices or lime wedges for added freshness. Some popular variations of khao pad include pineapple fried rice, which adds a sweet and tangy twist to the dish.
You can also find variations of khao pad in neighboring countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Myanmar. Each country puts their own spin on the dish by incorporating local ingredients and spices.
Thai Spring Rolls
Another popular appetizer in Thai cuisine is spring rolls. These crispy and savory rolls are filled with vegetables, noodles, and sometimes meat or seafood. They’re usually served as a snack or as part of a meal.
There are two types of spring rolls commonly found in Thai cuisine – the fried version and the fresh version. The fried version is made by wrapping the filling in a thin sheet of pastry and deep-frying until crispy. The fresh version, also known as summer rolls, uses rice paper wrappers and is served cold without being fried.
Spring rolls can be found at most Thai restaurants, but for an authentic experience, try them from street vendors or small local eateries. They are often served as an appetizer or snack, and can also be a main dish when accompanied by rice or noodles.
Variations of Spring Rolls
- Vegetarian: Instead of meat, these spring rolls are filled with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms, cabbage, and tofu.
- Seafood: These spring rolls are filled with seafood such as shrimp, crabmeat, or fish.
- Curry: This variation uses curry paste mixed into the filling for a spicy twist on the traditional spring roll.
- Fruit: In Thailand, it’s not uncommon to find spring rolls filled with a mixture of fresh fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple.
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Final Words
Best street food in Thailand for tourists is undoubtedly an experience not to be missed. The variety of flavors, textures, and aromas found in Thai street food is unmatched. From the savory Pad Thai to the sweet mango sticky rice, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse culture of Thailand. So next time you visit this beautiful country, don’t forget to explore the bustling street food markets.
FAQs
What is the best time to try street food in Thailand?
The best time to try street food in Thailand is during the evening, typically after 5 pm. This is when most street vendors start setting up their stalls and the atmosphere becomes lively with locals and tourists alike.
Is it safe to eat street food in Thailand?
Yep, it’s generally safe to eat street food in Thailand. Most street vendors take pride in their food and follow good hygiene practices. However, it is always recommended to use your own judgement and choose clean and busy stalls.
How much does street food cost in Thailand?
Street food is very affordable in Thailand, with most dishes ranging from 30-50 baht ($1-2 USD). However, prices may vary depending on the location and type of dish. Some popular dishes such as pad thai or mango sticky rice may cost a bit more.
What types of street food can you find in Thailand?
Thailand is known for its wide variety of delicious street food offerings. Some popular dishes include pad thai, som tam (papaya salad), satay skewers, mango sticky rice, and khao man gai (chicken and rice). There are also many different types of noodles, soups, and fried snacks to try.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available at street food stalls in Thailand. Many dishes use tofu or vegetables as the main protein source instead of meat.
