Why Thai Desserts Are Just as Amazing as the Mains

Thai cuisine is known for its vibrant flavours, aromatic spices, and exquisite balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements.

While the main courses often steal the spotlight, Thai desserts also deserve some recognition. They are a delightful end to any meal and showcase the culinary artistry that makes Thai food so popular. Here are some of our Thai restaurant desert favourites:

Khao Neow Mamuang: Mango Sticky Rice

Khao neow mamuang is perhaps the most famous Thai dessert. This dish features ripe, juicy mango slices served alongside glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and sweetened with sugar. The sticky rice is often garnished with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or mung beans for added texture.

Thai people love khao neow mamuang for its harmonious blend of flavours and textures. The creamy, slightly salty coconut rice pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness and juiciness of the mango. It is a refreshing and satisfying dessert that highlights the use of fresh, local ingredients.

Popia Glui: Thai Banana Spring Rolls

This is really a delightful treat that combines the crispiness of a spring roll with the natural sweetness of bananas. This dessert consists of ripe bananas wrapped in thin spring roll wrappers, deep-fried until golden brown, and drizzled with honey or condensed milk. Sometimes, they are served with a scoop of coconut ice cream for an extra indulgence.

The appeal of this dessert lies in its contrast of textures and temperatures. The hot, crispy exterior gives way to the soft, sweet banana inside, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Saku: Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk

Saku is a popular Thai dessert that is both visually appealing and equally delicious. The dish features small tapioca pearls cooked until translucent and chewy, served in a sweetened coconut milk broth. It is often garnished with pieces of melon or other fruits, adding a refreshing element to the creamy dessert.

The combination of chewy tapioca pearls and creamy coconut milk creates a comforting and satisfying dessert that is perfect for ending a meal on a light and sweet note. Saku is an excellent choice for those seeking a traditional Thai dessert with a unique twist.

Mor Geng: Thai Custard Cake

Mor geng is a richly flavoured dessert that showcases the versatility of Thai sweets. The dessert is made from a mixture of mung bean flour, coconut milk, palm sugar, and eggs, which is then baked until it forms a firm, custard-like texture. The top is often caramelised to add a slightly crispy layer.

The creamy texture and the deep, caramelised flavour make mor geng a favourite for those who love Thai food in all its many forms. It is a dessert that highlights the use of traditional ingredients like coconut milk and palm sugar, offering a taste of authentic Thai culinary traditions.

Thai desserts reflect the same balance and attention to detail that characterise other aspects of Thai cuisine. From the refreshing khao neow mamuang to the rich mor geng, each tells a story of Thailand's rich culinary heritage and the love for harmonious and delightful flavours.