Highlighting Some Lesser-Known Thai Dishes

Thailand’s culinary heritage is rich and diverse, with dishes that tantalise the taste buds and provide a deep insight into the country's culture and traditions.

While many are familiar with popular staples like Pad Thai or Tom Yum, numerous other dishes deserve equal attention. Here are just a few:

Khao Soi

Originating from the northern region of Thailand, Khao Soi is a delightful curry noodle soup that combines both creamy and spicy flavours.

It consists of egg noodles served in coconut milk and a curry broth, often accompanied by tender pieces of chicken or beef. What sets Khao Soi apart is the texture achieved by topping the dish with crispy fried noodles.

It is typically served with a side of pickled mustard greens, raw shallots, and a wedge of lime, allowing diners to tailor the flavours to their liking. Despite its immense popularity in Northern Thailand, Khao Soi is relatively unknown to many outside the region, making it a dish worth exploring.

Som Tam

Also called green papaya salad, this is a staple dish in Isan, the northeastern region of Thailand. It is a vibrant and refreshing salad made from shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, long beans, and peanuts.

The dressing uses a blend of fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and chilli, creating a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes.

There are several variations of Som Tam, including those with salted crab or fermented fish, each offering a different twist on the classic. You not only get a burst of amazing flavour but this is also a healthy option for those looking to try Thai cuisine.

Pad Kee Mao

If you like drunken noodles this spicy stir-fry that packs a punch. There is no alcohol in the dish, however. The name is believed to come from its intense spiciness, which supposedly pairs well with a cold beer.

This dish is made with wide rice noodles, which are stir-fried with garlic, chillies, vegetables, and a choice of protein such as chicken, beef, or tofu. Basil leaves add a fragrant and slightly peppery note that complements the dish's overall heat.

Pad Kee Mao is an excellent choice for those who enjoy bold, fiery flavours and is a perfect alternative to the milder Pad Thai.

Pork Satay

More associated with Indonesian or Malaysian cuisine, Pork Satay is nevertheless a popular Thai street food that should not be overlooked. Skewers of marinated pork are grilled to perfection and served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce and a side of tangy cucumber relish.

The marinade typically includes ingredients like coconut milk, turmeric, and curry powder, which give the pork its distinctive flavour and golden hue.

Pork Satay is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a starter or a light meal and is especially popular for its delightful combination of sweet and savoury notes.

Congee (Jok)

This is a really nice rice porridge that is a breakfast staple in Thai households and is incredibly satisfying, often enjoyed by locals on cool mornings. Jok is made by boiling rice until it breaks down into a smooth, thick porridge, and is typically served with minced pork, poached eggs, and garnished with fresh ginger, spring onions, and a dash of soy sauce.

Each of these lesser-known dishes offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Thai cuisine, providing a range of flavours and textures that go beyond the familiar offerings of most Thai restaurants. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur of Thai food or a newcomer, exploring them will undoubtedly enhance your culinary experience.