1. Tom yum
One of Thai cuisine’s most recognizable soups, with a vivid sour and spicy flavour. It can be made with prawns, other seafood or chicken. Lemongrass, galangal and fish sauce may feature in its aromatic base; ingredients vary by recipe.
Tom yum is often a first introduction to Thai food. Tell the server how much heat you enjoy before ordering.
2. Pad thai
These stir-fried noodles appear in street cafés and restaurants alike. They are cooked in a wok; additions can include seafood or chicken, tofu, dried shrimp, shallots, chilli and palm sugar.
Crushed peanuts often add a distinctive finishing touch. If you have a food allergy, check the ingredients before ordering.
3. Som tam
This green papaya salad brings together sour, sweet, salty and spicy flavours. It is a way to discover the contrasts of Thai cooking.
Different recipes add beans, garlic, carrots and other ingredients to shredded papaya. Feel free to ask what goes into the local version.
4. Tom kha gai
A chicken soup made with coconut milk. Galangal, lemongrass and lime leaves provide a fragrant aroma and a tangy note. It is often served with white rice.
If you prefer mild food, you can say “No spicy” when ordering. Ask whether your chosen dish can be made without chilli: prepared sauces and bases may already be spicy.
