Joanna James
Bangkok, the vibrant and bustling capital of Thailand, is a food lover's paradise, and its street food scene stands out as one of the most diverse and delectable in the world. The city's bustling streets are adorned with a kaleidoscope of flavours, aromas, and colors, as vendors skillfully prepare an array of tantalizing dishes right before your eyes. From the iconic Pad Thai to the flavorful Som Tum (green papaya salad) and the aromatic Grilled Pork Skewers, Bangkok's street food offers a culinary adventure that captures the essence of Thai cuisine.
With a Portuguese historical connection dating back to the 17th century, Bangkok carries a culinary legacy influenced by foreign alliances in war or trade, leaving an enduring imprint for generations. Among the beloved street foods is Foi Thong, known as Fios de Ovos in Portugal. This Thai dessert involves delicately streaming egg yolks through a slender funnel into a sugary syrup, creating luscious golden threads. The syrup, infused with the fragrance of Pandan leaves, imparts a distinctive Thai essence to the dish, and it has a harmonious blend of sweetness, stickiness, and uniqueness.
Encountering this dish is a common occurrence as you stroll through the streets of Bangkok. The prevalence of Thai seafood excellence explains why many street delicacies in this city hail from the sea. Typically smothered in a sweet and tangy sauce with a hint of spiciness, this Thai-style chargrilled squid boasts a unique flavour profile derived from fish sauce, garlic, and Thai chillies. Perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.
Arguably the most favoured and certainly the most prominent, these petite Thai crepes are a culinary essential. Each stall or kiosk where you sample them ensures their expert and fresh preparation. Crafted from rice flour, the fillings may differ from one vendor to another, yet the most prevalent variation includes crepes generously filled with coconut cream, occasionally adorned with Foi Thong for added texture and sweetness. These crunchy crepes also offer savoury alternatives, presenting a myriad of choices available at the same stall.
Presented on a street food vendor's counter, this deceptively uncomplicated Thai dessert captivates with its visual allure. Adorned with vibrant toppings that catch the eye, these cups featuring tapioca and custard are unmistakable. Khanom Tako, a multi-layered delight, is artfully crafted within cups fashioned from pandan leaves, contributing to both its enticing aroma and flavour. The base consists of a luscious coconut pudding, crowned with tapioca pearls and water chestnuts. Look for this dish in the top restaurants of Bangkok as well as in places such as the Pathumwan Princess Hotel.
Originating from Chinese traditions, these petite mooncakes are predominantly discovered in Thai-Chinese establishments and pastry shops. Originally crafted for the Mid-Autumn festival, these treats have transcended seasonal boundaries and can now be savoured throughout the year across the city. Thai mooncakes exhibit a distinctive touch, incorporating local flavours such as Durian Paste and sweet potatoes. Many establishments offer variations with sweet or savoury fillings, frequently featuring ingredients like lotus seed paste, red bean paste, or salted egg yolk.
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.
