Joanna James
Stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife may define Phuket, but Thailand’s largest island is also home to a rich and diverse cuisine that is just as exciting. Treat yourself to an assortment of mouth-watering Southern Thai treats and delicacies, and let your taste buds revel in the bold flavours.
Combining a sweet and savoury taste, Phuket’s favoured speciality, Moo Hong, is an unmissable dish for everyone travelling to the island, especially for those meat lovers. It is a slow-braised pork belly dish influenced by Hokkien Chinese immigrants. The pork is cooked in a rich blend of soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, and five-spice powder, which gives the dish its tender and flavourful relish.
A wonderful start to your wonderful morning in Phuket, Kanom Jeen Namya is a popular breakfast dish in Southern Thailand savoured by locals and tourists alike. In its basic form, it is a dish of soft fermented rice noodles topped with a creamy and spicy fish curry sauce. It is one of the many dishes that reflect Phuket and the region’s love for coconut milk-based curries.
A spoonful of Kaeng Tai Pla is sure to take your breath away, as it is one of the most intensely flavoured dishes in Southern Thai cuisine. A combination of fermented fish entrails, bamboo shoots, eggplant, and a plethora of aromatic spices make the delectable dish, packing rich, spicy and salty flavours.
Arguably the most popular dish in Phuket and Southern Thailand, Gaeng Som is a signature dish of the region, combining both spicy and sour flavours. A mouthful of satisfying Gaeng Som may not only make you fall in love with the dish itself but also with the beautiful southern region. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself prompted to check out any Thailand luxury villas for sale in the area, the likes of Avadina Hills by Anantara.
One ingredient that is prominent throughout Southern Thai cuisine is turmeric, and Pla Tod Kamin is one dish that doesn’t shy away from the golden-orange spice. The dish consists of deep-fried fish, typically mackerel or snapper, marinated with turmeric, garlic, and black pepper. It is one of the simplest dishes found in Phuket, yet breathtakingly delectable.
Fun and exciting things to do in Phuket may be plentiful, but your Thai island experience wouldn’t be complete without getting a taste of its vibrant street food scene. O-Tao is a popular street food dish found in the streets of Phuket Town. The tantalising aroma of crackling oysters, taro, and crispy pork rinds is unmissable as you enter the lively streets.
Food isn’t only about relishing your taste buds and is also an element of culture, especially when it comes to traditional and authentic food. Roti Gaeng is characteristic of Southern Thailand’s strong Muslim influences and offers a glimpse into the fascinating culture, making for more than just mouth-watering flavours.
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.
