5 breakfast dishes that the passionate foodie must try in Thailand - “Experiencing Thailand through the symphonies"

Jok is Thailand’s version of congee, a comforting rice porridge that is a staple breakfast dish across the country. Made from broken rice, this dish is simmered until it reaches a creamy consistency, making it a soothing start to the day. Jok is often compared to the chicken soup of Asia due to its hearty, nutritious nature. 

It’s not just filling but also highly customizable, with a variety of toppings and seasonings to suit individual tastes. The base of jok is mild in flavour, but it comes alive when garnished with ingredients such as minced pork, poached egg, ginger, cilantro, fried garlic, and green onions.  Hotels such as the Santiburi Koh Samui put their own gourmet spin on classics like these.

For those who prefer something a bit more soupy, Khao Tom is another traditional Thai breakfast dish that’s similar to jok but more broth-based. This rice soup is made from jasmine rice, boiled in a flavorful broth, often with minced pork, chicken, or shrimp. It’s a lighter alternative to jok, but still packed with bold flavors and fragrant herbs. 

Khao Tom is typically served with a variety of fresh and cooked garnishes, such as cilantro, fried garlic, pickled vegetables, and chili peppers. This dish is a popular breakfast option in Thailand, especially for those seeking a nourishing and easily digestible meal to start their day.

If you have a sweet tooth, Pa Thong Ko is a must-try Thai breakfast treat. These golden, deep-fried dough sticks are the Thai version of doughnuts and are a popular street food breakfast, often enjoyed with a cup of hot soy milk or coffee. Pa Thong Ko is crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside, making it a delicious contrast of textures. Unlike Western doughnuts, Pa Thong Ko is typically not sweet on its own. 

However, they are often served with a side of sangkaya, a sweet and creamy coconut custard, or sweetened condensed milk for dipping. In some places, you’ll also find them served alongside a savory bowl of jok or khao tom, where they are used to soak up the broth and add an extra layer of flavor and crunch. 

Omelets may be a common breakfast dish around the world, but Thailand’s take on the omelet Kai Jeow is something special. This dish may look simple, but it packs a punch of flavor. The result is a light and airy omelet with a deliciously crunchy texture. Kai Jeow is often served over a bed of steamed jasmine rice and paired with a variety of dipping sauces, such as nam pla prik, a mix of fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped chilies. 

Some versions of Kai Jeow include minced pork or shrimp, adding more substance to the dish. For a true Thai street food experience, try a Kai Jeow made in a wok over high heat, which imparts a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste. Kai Jeow is a quick and easy breakfast dish that you can find at many street vendors and local restaurants in Thailand. 

Rounding out this list of must-try Thai breakfast dishes is Khanom Krok, a sweet and savory coconut pancake that is both crispy and creamy. The batter is cooked until the outside is crispy, while the inside remains soft and custard-like. Khanom Krok is often topped with ingredients like green onions, sweet corn, or shredded coconut, adding a layer of flavor that balances the sweetness of the coconut milk.

Khanom Krok is a popular street food, often sold by vendors who cook them fresh on the spot. The combination of creamy coconut with the slight char from the griddle makes these pancakes a delicious and unique breakfast treat that you won’t want to miss. They are perfect for foodies looking to experience a different side of Thai cuisine, especially those who enjoy a balance of sweet and savory flavors.