There are literally tens of thousands of restaurants around Bangkok, and on a short visit, you might be lucky to get to ten of them! But to get the authentic Bangkok cuisine experience, there are a few dishes that are a must on the eat-before-you-die! Here are 7 of Bangkok’s best dishes:
You may have heard of Tom Yum Soup, a Thai staple. Well Tom Kha Gai is a much gentler version of Tom Yum, with a sumptuous infusion of shallots, lemongrass, young galangal, bits of tender chicken and of course, chilies. The secret is in the coconut milk, with a sprinkling of lime leaves adorning the creamy surface.
If you can’t stand the heat, leave this off your list! The Northeastern region of Thailand is renowned for its spice, and this classic dish is full of fire. A paste of plump cherry tomatoes, green beans, chilies, garlic is mixed into a bed of sweet shredded papaya. You may find this dish finished with dry shrimp, salted crab or peanuts, depending on where you eat it. Be sure to have a glass of something cool nearby!
No one comes to Thailand, especially Bangkok, and leaves without trying a Pad Thai two or three times! It’s one of those addictive dishes you can’t get enough of, and if you’ve been to a Thai restaurant anywhere else in the world, you’ll find it on the menu. A piping out blend of noodles, onion, egg, beansprouts, and your choice of meat (shrimp, chicken and in some places beef!), and you have yourself a perfect Pad Thai.
Asia is renowned for its curries, and Thailand is no exception. There are a handful of classic or staple curries and as you travel to different regions, each village can have its own variation on a particular curry. Red Curry is a beloved Bangkok favorite, with its fresh kaffir lime leaves, coconut milk, red curry paste and a choice of tender chicken or beef. Served on or beside a bed of steaming jasmine rice all that’s missing is a refreshing beer.
Calling all spice lovers, you’ve hit the jackpot! A super spicy twist on the traditional Tom Yum Soup, delight in the unmistakable aromas of fresh shrimp, chili, lime leaves, fish sauce and lemon grass. Have it as a starter or a larger bowl as a meal, either way, this is a must try for anyone visiting Bangkok!
Fried rice is a staple in just about every Asian country, and of course, each has their own unique way of making it delectable. Thai fried rice is the perfect companion to just about every meal, with a simple ingredient list consisting of eggs, onions, some herbs, accompanied by a wedge of lime and thin slices of cucumber.
Bangkok can sometimes feel like a simmering tea pot and some days, the last thing you want to eat is something steaming hot. Luckily, Thailand is world famous for its amazing salads, and spicy beef salad is at the top of our list for must-try dishes. A refreshing blend of spearmint, lime, onion, coriander and beef create an eye-opening flavor explosion.