Joanna James
Thai food is a culinary masterclass, made up of a large quantity of dishes, flavours and traditions that will have you licking your lips in glee. When on holiday in Phuket, Thailand, have a look at these household names.
Splashes of vibrant colour and a generous use of fragrant herbs and spices underpin what Thais refer to as their national dish – Tom Yum Goong. Renowned for its distinct aromas, the spicy Tom Yum Goong will introduce you to the locals’ obsession with food that revolves around chilli. Made with lemongrass, shallots, galangal, fish sauce and a host of other ingredients, this spice-infused soup is best paired with white rice.
Although a growing number of variations can be found across the globe, few can match the prowess and flair when it comes to whipping up a tasty rendition of Pad Thai, right here in Phuket, Thailand. As a sought-after noodle dish that will excite and enthral your tastebuds with every mouthful, such a delicious serving is brought about by mixing tofu, bean sprouts, shrimp, onions, finely ground peanuts, chilli powder, sugar and a sprinkling or two of fish sauce.
It should come as no surprise to you if you encounter cashew nuts in the food that you consume in Phuket for the island is one of the main producers of cashew nuts in the country. Therefore, do give Gai Pad Med Ma Muang which is Stir-fried Chicken with Cashew Nuts a go before your travels in this part of the country draw to a close. Further, this dish is an excellent choice if you aren’t too fond of chilli as it features honey, garlic, soy sauce and some dried chillies as its chief inclusions. Often had with steamed rice, the said serving can be enjoyed during lunch or dinner.
Those with a soft spot for salads would do well to savour some Som Tam which is a spicy papaya salad that hails from the regions of Northern Thailand. While the sweet and sour levels tend to vary from area to area and from one restaurant to the other, one thing remains certain and that is diners will be well placed to tuck into a healthy serving of heat in every sense of the phrase. Red chilli is the main ingredient of Som Tam which is commonly eaten alongside sticky rice or barbecue chicken. Similarly, if you wish to enjoy more of the island’s salads, then do consider heading over to Age Restaurant which is one of the better Phuket restaurants.
In the event you yearn to satisfy your cravings for fried rice, then look no further than Kao Phad. Packed to the rafters with plenty of flavours and textures, Kao Phad offers you a choice of chicken or shrimp as the primary ingredient. Aside from the above, you will soon be found munching on tomatoes, onions, eggs, garlic, cilantro and of course some chilli that will certainly add a kick.
Comprising a wide range of ingredients that include coriander, coconut milk, eggplant, bamboo shoots and freshly cooked chicken, Geng Kheaw Wan Gai or Green Curry Chicken is your classic serving of meat and veggies on a plate.
Infused with many spices and additions in the likes of roasted peanuts, potatoes and tamarind sauce, Massaman Curry is a dish that you can enjoy with a choice of chicken, beef or pork when in Phuket.
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.
