What can be better when you’re thousands of miles away from home than to appreciate the uniqueness of the local cuisine? Thailand is no exception. Thailand, a country that lies on the water, is known for its fresh abundance of seafood. It would only make sense to highlight our five favorite seafood dishes that one can find and indulge in while on a Thailand journey. Bon Appétit!
1) Grilled Jumbo Prawns in Tamarind Sauce
Tamarind, a staple of Thai cuisine, is an exotic fruit that comes from the pea and bean family. Tamarind sauce can be used to dress many dishes to give that true Thai flavor. What better thing to pair it with than grilled prawns? Overlooking Lamai beach in Koh Samui, you can’t find fresher fish than at this hidden gem of a restaurant called Sabeinglae if you’re looking to try this authentic dish.
2) Hor Mok
Hor Mok, also known as Thai fish custard, is a traditional fish curry cooked and served in a banana leaf. It’s full of rich flavors that represent all of what we love about Thai food and is a heavenly combination of fish, red curry paste, kaffir lime leaves, sugar and coconut cream. A local favorite, you definitely don’t want to miss out on it at Bang Pae Seafood Restaurant.
3) Tom Yum Goong
A staple in most Thai menus, Tom Yum is a hot and spicy soup traditionally made with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and crushed chili peppers. Add shrimp for the seafood lovers and you have Tom Yum Goong! Modern versions can also include mushrooms and cilantro. One of our favorite versions can be found at Koti Restaurant in Hua Hin. It’s where the locals eat so you know it must be good!
4) Miang Pla Too
Otherwise known as mackerel fish lettuce wraps, Miang Pla Too is usually served as a make-your-own style dish and perfect to share. You build your own lettuce wrap and fill it with fried fish, vegetables, rice noodles, and cilantro with a side of spicy chili sauce. Be sure to try these at A Malika, a local favorite found in the capital of Thailand, Bangkok.
5) Boo Paht Pong Karee
If you’re looking to spice things up, we recommend you try Boo Paht Pong Karee, or Thai crab curry. This dish is unique in Thai cuisine, as it is prepared with dry curry powder and sometimes fresh milk, instead of a curry paste. Combined with oyster sauce, nam prik pao, white pepper, egg, fresh chilis and celery, this dish is sure to please any curry lover. You can get yours hands on some at Pong Lee Restaurant, one of the top restaurants in Bangkok.
These dishes are ones you’ll remember! Trust us.
