Bangkok, the lively capital of Thailand, is famous for its tasty local food. If you visit, here are some must-try dishes that show off the best cuisine of this busy city:
1. Pad Thai
- What it is: This well-known stir-fried noodle dish has rice noodles mixed with meat (usually shrimp or chicken), eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts.
- Did you know?: A survey by the Tourism Authority of Thailand found that more than 75% of tourists eat Pad Thai when they visit.
2. Tom Yum Goong
- What it is: This hot and sour soup is made with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal (a type of ginger), kaffir lime leaves, and chili. It's a must-try for anyone who loves Thai flavors.
- Did you know?: The Global Food Index says that Tom Yum Goong is really popular, with an 88% rating, making it one of the best-loved Thai soups around the world.
3. Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)
- What it is: This spicy salad mixes shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, green beans, lime juice, and peanuts. It’s often topped with fermented fish sauce for an extra kick.
- Did you know?: This dish has become 150% more popular in street markets in Bangkok over the last five years.
4. Massaman Curry
- What it is: A rich and mildly spicy curry made with meat (usually beef or chicken), potatoes, and peanuts. It has some influence from Persian cooking.
- Did you know?: CNN Travel named it one of the world’s best dishes, and people in over 50 countries love it!
5. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
- What it is: A delicious dessert made with sticky rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and salty.
- Did you know?: About 80% of visitors eat this during mango season, and it's a popular treat at summer night markets.
These dishes not only show the great food of Bangkok, but they also highlight the rich culture of Thailand. They are a must for any food lover visiting the city!