3 Examples of Classic Thai Dishes

Discover 3 classic Thai dishes that are easy to make and bursting with flavor!
By Taylor

Introduction to Classic Thai Dishes

Thai cuisine is a beautiful blend of flavors, colors, and textures that come together to create unforgettable dishes. Known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements, Thai food is a delight for the senses. In this guide, we’ll explore three classic Thai dishes that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen!

1. Pad Thai: A Stir-Fried Noodle Delight

Pad Thai is one of the most famous Thai dishes, loved for its harmonious mix of flavors and textures. This dish is often enjoyed as a street food staple in Thailand, making it a great choice for a quick and flavorful meal at home.

To make Pad Thai, you’ll need rice noodles, shrimp or chicken, eggs, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy sauce made from tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar. Start by soaking the rice noodles in warm water until soft. In a wok, heat some oil and stir-fry your protein until cooked through. Push it to the side of the pan, scramble the eggs, then add the drained noodles and sauce. Toss everything together, adding the bean sprouts and peanuts at the end for crunch.

Notes:

  • For a vegetarian version, use tofu instead of meat.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding chili flakes or fresh chilies.

2. Green Curry: A Creamy, Spicy Sensation

Green Curry, or “Gaeng Khiao Wan,” is a fragrant and spicy curry that showcases the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. It’s a comforting dish often served with rice and is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

To prepare Green Curry, you’ll need green curry paste, coconut milk, your choice of protein (like chicken or eggplant for vegetarian), and fresh basil. Start by heating a pot and adding the curry paste until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk and simmer. Add your protein and cook until tender. Finally, add fresh basil leaves right before serving to infuse the dish with herbal freshness.

Notes:

  • You can adjust the amount of curry paste based on your spice preference.
  • Serve with jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

3. Tom Yum Soup: A Flavorful Hot and Sour Soup

Tom Yum is a famous Thai soup known for its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients. It’s a fantastic starter or light meal that’s perfect for warm weather or when you’re feeling under the weather.

To create Tom Yum, gather shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, chili, and fish sauce. Start by boiling water and adding the lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves to create a fragrant broth. Once it’s boiling, add the shrimp and chili, cooking until the shrimp is pink. Finish with a splash of fish sauce and lime juice for the signature hot and sour flavor.

Notes:

  • Feel free to add mushrooms or tofu for extra texture.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro to enhance the flavor.

Now you have three classic Thai dishes to try at home! Each one brings a unique taste of Thailand to your kitchen, allowing you to experience the incredible flavors of this beloved cuisine.