Thailand has long been one of my favourite destinations and should top any travellers wish list. With its stunning beaches, where crystal clear turquoise water laps gently against the shore, the so very friendly locals and the awe-inspiring temples which mix so seamlessly with the 21st century metropolitan cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, it certainly makes for a unique and enjoyable experience which will leave you wanting more.
One of the key reasons I’m so mad about Thailand is of course the delicious and taste-bud tantalizing food which you’ll find cooked freshly to perfection on the many street stalls and in the traditional eateries nestled in the old and new parts of the cities alike.
If you can’t get enough of Thai food like me, why not check out my top 5 favourite dishes below; you never know, you might find a new favourite…
Tom Yam Gai
This has to been one of my most favourite Thai dishes and one that I’ll never tire of. Tom Yam Gai is a spicy, hot and sour soup, infused with the flavours of lemongrass and chilli, and containing tasty chunks of chicken in a clear and heavenly, mouth-watering broth.
You’ll find that most Thai food contains chillis and this soup is no exception. If you’re feeling brave, ask for it hot and you’ll soon clear your sinuses.
Pad Thai
Definitely a deserving contender for my top 5 list, Pad Thai is a delicious stir-fried noodle dish which can usually be found in 2 varieties; the classic dish and the variation dish (influenced by Western tastes).
By far the best, the classic dish is a beautiful mix of stir-fried noodles with eggs, fish sauce, tamarind juice, chillis, bean sprouts, tofu and shrimp. Served with crushed peanuts and coriander, this is one dish you’ll find yourself ordering time and time again.
Gai Pad Med Mamuang
A delightful, simple and satiating dish which basically consists of chicken and cashew nuts, but don’t let that fool you, it’s certainly a dish that will get you hooked on Thai food. With a dash of honey, a splash of sweet soy sauce and plenty of garlic, it’s a deliciously sweet and divine meal that will soon become one of your firm favourites.
The best place to experience this dish is on the island of Phuket where the cashew nuts are grown. The addition of the freshly picked cashew nuts takes this meal to another level and the beautiful surroundings will make the experience even better.
Whilst you’re on the island, make sure you get to experience the brilliant scuba diving on offer in the clear tropical waters that surround the island (don’t forget to check your travel insurance to see if you are covered).
Panaeng
Coconut milk is a common ingredient in Thai cuisine and this dish usually contains plenty. Panaeng is a tasty and mouthwatering dish consisting of chicken, beef or pork in a creamy and spicy coconut sauce with chilli for that extra kick and well complimented by the boiled rice it is served with.
Thom Kha Gai
If you want a slightly milder dish after too many fiery chilli packed dishes, why not opt for this delicious soup. Very similar to the Thom Yam Gai above (and still containing chilli) but with the addition of coconut milk and Galangal (a relative of ginger with a distinctive and enjoyable taste) which makes it much more mellow and softer on the palette.
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