Lavinia Woolf
Bangkok is well-known for its culinary offerings, with an amazing variety of delicious dishes available for the visitor. However there are some which every visitor should try, as listed below.
This spicy soup with its unmistakable aroma is definitely one of Thailand's distinctive dishes. The primary ingredients are shrimp and mushrooms, the flavours of which are enhanced with an assortment of spices. Ingredients used in this exquisite soup include chilli, lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce and shallots. The herbs and spices provide the distinctive flavours and aroma of this delectable dish, one of the nation's best-known delights. The smell of this culinary masterpiece has been compared to exquisite perfume, and the flavour can only come from the nation of Thailand. Visitors should make it a point to sample this wonderful soup in the Thai capital.
Tom Kha Kai is a chicken coconut soup, rather different from Tom Yum as it is milder and perhaps more subtle. Tom Kha Kai is made with tender slices of chicken, zesty chillies, crushed shallots, sliced galangal and lemongrass stalks. However the spicy impact of this tasty soup is moderated by its distinctive ingredient, coconut milk. Garnished with freshly plucked lime leaves, this flavourful dish smells as inviting as it tastes. The creamy and yet compelling taste of this dish sets it apart from others you will find in Bangkok.
This spicy papaya salad is a distinctive dish that often creates strong responses; many love this salad whilst there are some who are not as appreciative. Originating from Isaan state this zesty treat is made from shredded green papaya, cherry tomatoes, green beans, chillies and garlic, all crushed and mixed together. This process releases the flavours of these ingredients, creating a unique taste that will linger in the memory of the eater. Variations of this salad include ingredients like salted crab, dry shrimp and peanuts, making a distinctive dish even more memorable.
Fried noodles, Thai style, this remarkable dish always comes to mind when discussing Thai food. This splendid creation is made in a steaming wok, with the noodles fried alongside onion, egg and bean sprouts. The noodles may be different – you can choose from small, wide and thin noodles – but the special flavour is unmistakable. Part of the experience of savouring Pad Thai is derived from the accompanying condiments – fish sauce, chilli powder, sugar and ground peanuts – which are added to enhance the flavours of the dish.
Gaeng Daeng, also known as red curry, is another of Bangkok's iconic concoctions. This flavourful curry is made from small pieces of meat, coconut milk, curry paste and thinly sliced lime leaves. It is a rich and fragrant curry that is always a treat for the taste buds. When this curry is made to perfection, the meat is exquisitely tender, creating a dining experience that you will always treasure. The delectable dishes mentioned here may be enjoyed at riverside restaurants Bangkok offers such as those of Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa, a quality accommodation that offers many contemporary amenities.
Fried rice is an ever-present dish in Bangkok, and even though it is simple, it is undoubtedly one of the Thai capital's signature dishes. Made with rice, onions, egg and a number of herbs, this preparation is often served for lunch accompanied by cucumber slices and wedges of limes. However this simple dish can be dressed up in many appealing ways, by combining it with chicken, crab, prawns, chilli, basil, vegetables and other ingredients. Irrespective of how you savour this dish, it is undoubtedly one of Bangkok's favourites.
