Joanna James
Bangkok is one of the best destinations in the world for avid foodies, but with so many options, it's hard to decide what to try first. Here are a couple of must try cuisines in Bangkok.
A staple on any Thai menu, the world over, Pad Thai made on the streets of Thailand is simply a hundred times better than anywhere else. Made from soaked rice noodles, tamarind pulp, shrimp paste, fried tofu, fish sauce and several other ingredients, which are then served accompanied by red chili peppers, bean sprouts, peanuts, lime wedges, and other assorted fresh vegetables. Some stalls offer vegetarian version by substituting the fish sauce with soy sauce; either way, it's delicious. For an authentic version, stay away from the 'tourist spots' and venture out into the night markets, and order yourself a bowl of fresh pad Thai, made to order.
This mouthwatering bowl of broth, sliced pork and noodles, is sadly found only in Thailand, and therefore a must try for anyone who wants to experience real Thai cuisine. You won't find the hearty soup at any restaurant as it is only made by street food vendors, mostly in part because of the way the broth is made. The potent broth is made from pork bones and onions that have been left to simmer for a very long time, thus creating the rich flavourful end result. It is then served over noodles, bak choy, sprouts, and thin slices of red pork.
Visit any street stall or night market and you will definitely see some version of pad kra pao being served up. It's so popular among locals, that even several of the best Bangkok restaurants have the dish on their menus. The classic dish consists of either minced pork, beef or chicken (the most popular choice is beef) which is stir-fried with basil and chillies, served over steamed rice and topped with a runny egg. While it may sound simple, it is packed with plenty of flavours and has a good kick of chilli to it. Be warned, even if you ask for a non-spicy version, in Thailand, that means only two chillies, which can still leave you sweating buckets by the end of your meal.
Another staple in Thai cuisine, you'll find a som tam seller on almost every street corner in Thailand. This salad is filling and tasty enough for a quick meal on its own, or served as an accompaniment with a rice dish. Thinly shaved strips of green papaya are pounded in a stone mortar with strips of carrots, tomatoes, string beans, fish sauce, palm sugar, and a handful of chillies. It's refreshing and delicious, and like most Thai food, packs a good dose of spiciness. If you're buying it from a street vendor, and would prefer a less spicy version, ask them to omit the chillies. Because the same mortar is used throughout the day, it's coated with chilie pieces, so even without adding chilli to the serving; you'll still get a hint of spice in your salad.
A simple dish made from stir-fried pumpkin and eggs, pad fuktong sai kai is usually served alongside turmeric rice to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin. Not an easy dish to find, the best places to look for it is at the night markets, especially the Khao San Road night market, located along the riverside close to several hotels like AVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel, for example.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
