Joanna James
The rich cultural legacy and wide range of influences present in Chiang Mai's cuisine are evident. From the well-known Khao Soi to the unusual Kaeng Khanun, every meal has a backstory that reveals some of the customs and history that have influenced Northern Thai food.
Arguably the most famous meal in Chiang Mai, Khao Soi is the ideal fusion of flavours and textures. Soft egg noodles are combined with a creamy coconut milk-based curry, usually cooked with chicken or beef, in this flavorful and aromatic curry noodle soup. Crispy fried noodles give the meal a delicious crunch on top. Many hotels, such as Travelodge Nimman, offer authentic Thai dishes like Khao Soi, perfect to enjoy while exploring the many things to see in Chiang Mai, Thailand, such as the stunning temples, vibrant night markets, and lush mountain landscapes.
Loved in Northern Thailand, Sai Oua is a sausage with strong flavours. A flavorful mixture of herbs and spices, such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal and red curry paste, are combined with minced pork to make this banger. After the mixture is perfectly cooked, it is put into sausage casings. The outcome is a fragrant, hot and juicy banger that goes well with fresh veggies and sticky rice.
Two classic Northern Thai chilli dips, Nam Prik Num and Nam Prik Ong, provide an insight into the region's enjoyment of bold, spicy flavours. Roasted green chilies, garlic, shallots, and lime are ground into a coarse paste and used to make Nam Prik Num. Traditionally, this spicy and smoky dip is eaten with crisp pork rinds and fresh vegetables.
Khai Pam is a simple yet delightful Northern Thai dish that showcases the region's resourcefulness and creativity. This dish consists of beaten eggs mixed with herbs and spices, poured into a banana leaf cup, and grilled over a charcoal fire. The banana leaf imparts a subtle smoky aroma to the eggs, resulting in a fragrant and flavorful custard-like dish.
Traditional Northern Thai noodle dish Khanom Chin Nam Ngiaw has a bold and unique flavour. It is composed of rice noodles served with a tomato-based broth, usually cooked with chicken or pig, that is tart and spicy. Dried red chiles, garlic, fermented soybeans, and tomatoes are added to the soup to give it a deep, flavorful flavour.
Northern Thai Jor Pak Gad is a filling and healthy soup made from packed cabbage rolls. Glass noodles, minced pork, and herbs are stuffed into cabbage leaves, which are then cooked in a delicious, transparent broth.
Northern Thai cuisine has been influenced by Burmese cuisine, as evidenced by the rich and fragrant curry known as Kaeng Hang Le. Tender chunks of pork belly are slow-cooked and served with a fragrant curry prepared with tamarind, ginger, garlic, and a mixture of spicy spices.
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.
