Joanna James
The popular Thai island of Phuket is not only renowned for its stunning beaches but also, its vibrant street food scene offering exotic and flavourful discoveries. Here are five key dishes that are part of the local culinary canvas that will ‘spice’ up your travels and leave you craving for more!
Another quintessential Thai dish that’s well worth trying is the spicy shrimp soup called Tom Yum Goong. This culinary treasure features an aromatic broth created by the careful use of key ingredients which when combined, offer this dish its signature flavour; these include lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, Thai chillies, galangal, fish sauce, garlic, shallots, and lime juice for a culinary creation that’s both spicy and sour. Of course, adding to the taste sensation is the succulent shrimp that lends to the utterly delightful taste.
Satay is amongst the most well-loved dishes on this island, and the aroma of freshly grilled meats is bound to get your attention as you wander around the streets in Phuket, Thailand! Luxury villas for sale here including those at properties like Avadina Hills by Anantara as well as private resorts, make an ideal base from which to easily reach restaurants, eateries or stalls which offer satay; options can include sliced and grilled chicken, pork, beef, or seafood served on a skewer. The special marinade offers the meats a heavenly flavour which perfectly complements the accompanying peanut dipping sauce.
In Phuket, dining would not be complete without trying some pad Thai, a classic dish with stir-fried rice noodles and either shrimp or chicken though you do get vegetarian versions with tofu as well. This signature dish from Thailand involves rice noodles being wok-fried with a medley of ingredients apart from the choice of meat; these include eggs, shallots or garlic, palm sugar, lime juice and red chilli pepper along with peanuts and bean sprouts. The sweet and savoury notes blend perfectly offering a burst of sublime flavours.
Also called Thai pancakes, roti is another must-try street food; while you do get savoury versions, don’t miss out on the sweet varieties as well. Savoury rotis are usually served with a curry dish and are generally eaten at breakfast. The sweet rotis on the other hand, are perfect to enjoy any time of the day and can feature everything from cut banana and condensed milk to delicious Nutella for chocoholics! It’s best tried as soon as it’s ready so you can savour the hot roti and gooey stuffing or topping which go hand in hand to create what is bound to be a new dessert favourite.
Amongst the most popular dishes in Phuket, khao pad kai or Thai-style fried rice with chicken (though you do get variations with pork or seafood instead) is not to be missed on a foodie tour. While very much like the Chinese version, it varies due to the use of jasmine rice as well as ingredients like prik nam pla which is a traditional Thai sauce and lime juice. The combination of the fragrant rice, tender chunks of chicken and savoury seasonings offers a divine dish that doesn’t cost much and is readily offered by street vendors.
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.
