10 Must-Try Thai Street Foods That Aren’t Pad Thai

Thai street food is a treasure trove of flavors and textures that go far beyond the well-loved Pad Thai. Whether you’re a fan of spicy, sweet, or savory, there’s something to delight every palate. In the bustling markets and vibrant streets, you’ll find a variety of dishes that showcase Thailand’s rich culinary heritage. Let’s take a journey through some of the best street foods you can enjoy in Thailand, beyond the famous Pad Thai.

Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)

Som Tum is a refreshing and spicy salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, and peanuts. It’s typically pounded together in a mortar and pestle with garlic, chilies, lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar. This combination creates a harmonious balance of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors. It’s a popular choice for a light and zesty street food snack.

Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers)

Moo Ping consists of marinated pork skewers that are grilled to perfection over charcoal. The marinade typically includes garlic, coriander root, fish sauce, soy sauce, and coconut milk, giving the pork a rich and savory taste. Often served with sticky rice, these skewers are a favorite among locals and tourists alike. They are perfect for a quick and satisfying bite on the go.

Khao Niew Ma Muang (Mango Sticky Rice)

Khao Niew Ma Muang is a beloved Thai dessert that combines sweet mango slices with sticky rice soaked in coconut milk. The sticky rice is slightly sweetened and has a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the juicy, ripe mango. Topped with a drizzle of coconut cream and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or mung beans, it’s a delightful way to end any meal. This dessert is especially popular during mango season.

Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)

Tom Yum Goong is a hot and sour soup that’s known for its bold flavors and fragrant aroma. Made with fresh shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chilies, this soup is both spicy and tangy. Coconut milk is sometimes added to give it a creamy texture, balancing the heat from the chilies. It’s a staple in Thai cuisine and a must-try for those who enjoy spicy food.

Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)

Sai Oua is a flavorful sausage from Northern Thailand made with minced pork, herbs, and spices. The sausage is typically seasoned with ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chilies, giving it a distinctive taste. Grilled until crispy on the outside, it’s often served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables. This dish offers a taste of Northern Thai culinary traditions.

Roti Gluay (Banana Roti)

Roti Gluay is a popular Thai street food dessert that features a flaky, crispy roti filled with sliced bananas. The roti is cooked on a hot griddle until golden brown, then drizzled with condensed milk and sometimes topped with sugar or chocolate sauce. It’s a sweet, satisfying treat that’s perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert. The combination of warm bananas and crispy roti is simply irresistible.

Khao Kha Moo (Braised Pork Leg on Rice)

Khao Kha Moo is a hearty dish consisting of tender, braised pork leg served over rice. The pork is slow-cooked with a blend of soy sauce, sugar, and spices until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. Often accompanied by pickled mustard greens, boiled egg, and a spicy garlic sauce, it’s a flavorful and comforting meal. This dish is a staple at many street food stalls across Thailand.

Khanom Bueang (Thai Crepes)

Khanom Bueang are crispy Thai crepes filled with a sweet or savory mixture. The crepe batter is made from rice flour and coconut milk, creating a light and crunchy texture. Popular fillings include sweetened coconut cream, shredded coconut, and savory options like shrimp or roasted peanuts. These bite-sized treats are a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them a favorite street food snack.

Pad Kra Pao (Stir-Fried Basil)

Pad Kra Pao is a spicy stir-fry dish made with minced meat (often pork or chicken), Thai holy basil, garlic, and chilies. The dish is typically served over rice and topped with a fried egg. The holy basil adds a unique, aromatic flavor that complements the spiciness of the chilies. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s beloved by locals for its bold flavors.

Kuay Teow Reua (Boat Noodles)

Kuay Teow Reua, or Boat Noodles, is a rich and flavorful noodle soup traditionally sold from boats along Bangkok’s canals. The broth is made with a combination of beef or pork, spices, and a hint of cow or pig’s blood, giving it a unique depth of flavor. The soup is served with rice noodles, meat, and sometimes offal, garnished with fresh herbs and bean sprouts. This dish is a must-try for those looking to experience authentic Thai street food.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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