When going to Thailand, most people rank the food on their short list of what they’re most excited for, what they know. Here are some 'do’s and 'don’t's of what to actually consume (from someone who has experienced the real thing):
1. There are other noodle dishes in Thailand than Pad Thai.
In the States, Pad Thai is often the go-to noodle dish when ordering your Thai take-out, but don’t let that familiarity get in the way of expanding your palate. A personal favorite of mine is Thai noodle.
2. There are a lot more curries than you probably think.
Yellow curry is the mildest in terms of spice level, but green and red will definitely make you sweat.
3. Do not ask for extra spice on any of your food unless you enjoy feeling like your whole body is on fire.
Asking for more spice on your food is basically challenging the cook to destroy your taste buds. The food is generally always a little spicy, so keep that in mind before asking to increase anything.
4. You don’t need to eat any fried bugs; if you’ve tasted chicken, that’s good enough.
Speaking of chicken, the Thai people love fried chicken, and it is always readily available. It is way better than the fried chicken in the U.S., so definitely try it.
5. The street food is remarkable!
Some of the best meals can be found on the side of the road being sold by vendors -- it is also your cheapest option. Meals are usually 20-50 baht, which is between 50 cents and $1.50.
6. If you want a true Thai meal, you have to get a fried egg on rice.
Yes, you will eat ketchup on fried rice. Yes, it will be delicious. If you walk down a busy street with food vendors, you won’t be able to walk 20 feet without someone selling this dish. An omelet over rice is also a common dish, and it is also very cost-effective.
7. Proportions are much smaller than in the U.S.
This means you eat less in one sitting, but end up eating more frequently. This also means there will be plenty of time to try everything.
8. If you want something sweet, mango and sticky rice is the way to go.
However, there's an odd amount of street vendors who sell waffles, so that is also a valid option.
All in all, the food in Thailand is incredible. The dishes consist of ingredients that are hardly used in most American dishes, and the spices are amazing. Pretty much anything you try is going to be an experience, so make sure to go to lots of different restaurants and street vendors before getting into any kind of habitual meal plan. Enjoy every bite, and try as many things as you can. May your taste buds survive the overload of spice, and your tummy be filled with lots of rice!
