The UK's Top 5 Favourite Thai Dishes

As Thai restaurants continue to flourish across the country, certain dishes have emerged as firm favourites among UK diners.

Here, we explore the top five Thai dishes that have captured the hearts and taste buds of the British public.

1. Pad Thai

Pad Thai is undoubtedly one of the most popular Thai dishes in the UK. The stir-fried noodle dish is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and savoury flavours, making it a versatile choice for all palates.

Made with rice noodles, tofu or prawns, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce, Pad Thai is often garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs.

The appeal of Pad Thai lies in its simplicity and the ability to customise it to individual tastes. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, it is a dish that consistently delivers comfort and flavour.

2. Kaeng Khiao Wan

Green curry is another favourite that has found a loyal following in the UK. Known for its rich, creamy coconut milk base, this curry is flavoured with green curry paste, which is made from fresh green chillies, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. The result is a dish that is both aromatic and mildly spicy.

Green curry is typically prepared with chicken, but it can also be made with beef, prawns, or tofu, making it a flexible option for different dietary preferences. The inclusion of vegetables such as aubergines, bamboo shoots, and sweet basil adds depth and variety to the dish.

3. Tom Yum Soup

This is a hot and sour Thai soup that has become a favourite starter or light meal among UK aficionados. It’s an iconic dish known for its bold flavours, which come from a blend of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, chillies, and lime juice.

The addition of prawns, chicken, or mushrooms, along with fresh herbs, makes Tom Yum an amazing dish.

The balance of spicy, sour, and savoury notes makes it a compelling choice for those looking to experience the true essence of Thai food, especially for the first time.

4. Massaman Curry

Massaman Curry is a rich, mildly spiced curry that has won the hearts of many in the UK. Originating from Southern Thailand, it is influenced by Indian and Malay cuisines giving it a distinct flavour that lots of people love.

Massaman curry is typically made with beef or lamb, slow cooked in a fragrant sauce of coconut milk, cinnamon, cardamom, and tamarind.

The slow-cooking process allows the meat to become tender and absorb the aromatic spices, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. The addition of potatoes and peanuts further enhances its richness.

5. Som Tum

Papaya Salad is another really popular Thai dish made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a dressing of lime juice, fish sauce, and chillies.

It is often enjoyed as a light starter or a side dish, providing a burst of flavour that complements the savoury elements of a Thai meal. The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy notes makes Som Tum a refreshing and invigorating option, particularly during the warmer months.

These top five Thai dishes have become favourites in the UK due to their distinctive flavours, versatility, and the way they capture the essence of Thai cuisine. Whether dining out at a Thai restaurant or enjoying a takeaway at home, you can always find what you want for that special meal.