Thai cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its vibrant flavors, aromatic herbs, and the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, sour, and salty notes. From comforting curries to lively salads and stir-fries, every dish tells a story of tradition and creativity. Whether you’re new to Thai food or a longtime fan, these 18 flavorful Thai dishes will introduce you to the heart of Thailand’s culinary culture. Each recipe is easy to make at home and offers a unique taste experience, allowing you to bring the magic of Thai flavors right to your kitchen table.
1. Thai Massaman Curry
Massaman curry is a rich, mild Thai curry that stands out for its unique blend of warm spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise, combined with creamy coconut milk and tender chunks of chicken or beef. Potatoes and peanuts add heartiness and texture, while tamarind and palm sugar provide a subtle sweetness. This dish is less spicy than other Thai curries, making it perfect for those who prefer gentle heat. Served with steamed jasmine rice, Massaman curry is comforting, aromatic, and deeply satisfying—a true showcase of Thai-Malay culinary fusion. Get the recipe: Thai Massaman Curry
2. Panang Curry
Panang curry is a creamy, slightly sweet Thai curry that features a fragrant blend of red chilies, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and coconut milk. Chicken or beef is commonly used, but tofu makes a great vegetarian option. The curry paste is sautéed until aromatic, then simmered with coconut milk to create a rich, velvety sauce. Bell peppers and Thai basil add color and freshness, while a hint of fish sauce and palm sugar balance the flavors. Serve Panang curry over steamed rice for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect any night of the week. Get the recipe: Panang Curry
3. Thai Green Curry
Thai green curry is known for its vibrant color and bold, herbal flavors. The curry paste is made from green chilies, garlic, galangal, lemongrass, and fresh herbs, creating a fragrant base that’s simmered with coconut milk. Chicken, tofu, or shrimp are popular proteins, while eggplant, bamboo shoots, and bell peppers add texture and nutrition. The result is a slightly spicy, aromatic curry with a creamy sauce that’s perfect over jasmine rice. Thai green curry is a staple in Thai households and a must-try for anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors. Get the recipe: Thai Green Curry
4. Thai Red Curry
Thai red curry is a classic dish that features a bold, spicy red curry paste made from dried red chilies, garlic, shallots, and lemongrass. The paste is cooked with coconut milk, creating a luscious, aromatic sauce. Chicken, beef, or tofu can be used, along with a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and bamboo shoots. The curry is finished with a splash of fish sauce and a touch of sugar for balance. Served with steamed rice, Thai red curry is comforting, spicy, and packed with authentic Thai flavor.
Get the recipe: Thai Red Curry
5. Thai Zucchini Curry
Thai zucchini curry is a light yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer. Sliced zucchini is simmered in a fragrant red curry sauce made with coconut milk, red curry paste, and a hint of lime. The curry is quick to prepare and can be customized with your choice of protein, such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Fresh basil and cilantro add a burst of freshness, while the creamy sauce ties everything together. Serve this curry over steamed rice or rice noodles for a healthy, satisfying meal that’s bursting with Thai flavors.
Get the recipe: Thai Zucchini Curry
6. Thai Fish Curry
Thai fish curry is a delicate, aromatic dish that highlights the natural flavors of fresh fish. The curry sauce is made with coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and a touch of red or green curry paste. Vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas add color and crunch. The fish is gently poached in the sauce until tender and flaky. This dish is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a healthy dinner. Serve with jasmine rice and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. Get the recipe: Thai Fish Curry
7. Pumpkin Curry
Pumpkin curry is a comforting Thai dish that features tender chunks of pumpkin simmered in a rich, coconut-based curry sauce. Red curry paste provides a gentle heat, while coconut milk adds creaminess. The natural sweetness of pumpkin pairs beautifully with the savory, spicy flavors of the curry. You can add tofu, chicken, or shrimp for extra protein. Fresh Thai basil and lime leaves bring a fragrant finish. This dish is both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various diets. Pumpkin curry is perfect for cozy evenings and meal prepping. Get the recipe: Pumpkin Curry
8. Thai Green Curry Noodles
Thai green curry noodles are a vibrant, satisfying dish that combines the flavors of green curry with the comfort of noodles. Rice noodles are tossed in a creamy green curry sauce made from coconut milk, green curry paste, and fresh herbs. Vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots add crunch and color, while chicken or tofu provides protein. The dish is finished with Thai basil and a squeeze of lime for brightness. Quick to prepare, these noodles are perfect for weeknight dinners or when you crave bold, Thai-inspired flavors. Get the recipe: Thai Green Curry Noodles
9. Pad Thai
Pad Thai is Thailand’s most famous stir-fried noodle dish, known for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Rice noodles are stir-fried with eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, and scallions, then tossed in a tangy tamarind sauce. Crushed peanuts and lime wedges are served on the side for extra crunch and zest. Pad Thai is quick to make and endlessly customizable, making it a favorite for home cooks and Thai food lovers alike. It’s a must-try dish that captures the essence of Thai street food.
Get the recipe: Pad Thai
10. Pad See Ew
Pad See Ew is a popular Thai street food made with wide rice noodles stir-fried in a savory soy sauce with Chinese broccoli, eggs, and your choice of protein, such as chicken, beef, or tofu. The noodles are cooked until slightly charred, giving the dish a smoky flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. Pad See Ew is less sweet than Pad Thai and has a rich, umami taste that appeals to all ages. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. Get the recipe: Pad See Ew
11. Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
Drunken noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, are a spicy, aromatic stir-fried noodle dish that’s famous for its bold flavors. Wide rice noodles are tossed with garlic, chilies, Thai basil, and vegetables, then stir-fried with chicken, beef, or tofu. The sauce is a savory blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce, creating a dish that’s both fiery and fragrant. Drunken noodles are perfect for those who love a bit of heat and crave the lively flavors of Thai street food. Get the recipe: Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
12. Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)
Thai basil chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai, is a quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s a staple in Thai cuisine. Ground chicken is cooked with garlic, chilies, and Thai basil, then seasoned with soy sauce, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar. The result is a savory, aromatic dish that’s both spicy and slightly sweet. Served over steamed rice and topped with a fried egg, Pad Krapow Gai is a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with authentic Thai flavor. Get the recipe: Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)
13. Tom Yum Soup
Tom Yum soup is a classic Thai hot and sour soup that’s bursting with flavor. The broth is made with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chilies, creating a fragrant and spicy base. Shrimp, mushrooms, and tomatoes are common additions, while fish sauce and lime juice provide a tangy finish. Tom Yum is both refreshing and invigorating, perfect as a starter or a light meal. Its distinctive taste and aromatic broth make it one of Thailand’s most beloved soups. Get the recipe: Tom Yum Soup
14. Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Soup)
Tom Kha Gai is a creamy, aromatic coconut soup that features tender chicken, mushrooms, and tomatoes in a fragrant broth. The soup is flavored with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and a hint of chili, then enriched with coconut milk for a silky texture. Lime juice and fish sauce add brightness and depth, while fresh cilantro provides a burst of freshness. Tom Kha Gai is comforting, mildly spicy, and perfect for anyone who loves the combination of creamy and tangy flavors. Get the recipe: Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Soup)
15. Som Tum (Thai Green Papaya Salad)
Som Tum is a refreshing Thai salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, and peanuts, all tossed in a tangy, spicy dressing of lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, and chilies. The salad is crunchy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, making it a popular street food and side dish. Som Tum is typically served with sticky rice and grilled meats, offering a perfect balance to richer Thai dishes. It’s a must-try for anyone who enjoys fresh, zesty salads with a kick. Get the recipe: Som Tum (Thai Green Papaya Salad)
16. Thai Minced Chicken Salad
Larb is a flavorful Thai salad made with minced chicken, pork, or beef, tossed with fresh herbs, lime juice, fish sauce, and toasted rice powder. Red onions, mint, and cilantro add freshness and crunch, while chilies provide heat. Larb is typically served with lettuce leaves or cabbage for wrapping and sticky rice on the side. The combination of savory, sour, and spicy flavors makes this salad incredibly addictive and refreshing. It’s a staple in Thai cuisine and a favorite for those who love bold, zesty dishes.
Get the recipe: Thai Minced Chicken Salad
17. Thai Spring Rolls
Thai spring rolls are crispy, golden appetizers filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, glass noodles, and sometimes shrimp or chicken. The filling is seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and white pepper, then wrapped in thin rice paper and fried until crunchy. Served with a sweet chili dipping sauce, these spring rolls are perfect as a starter or snack. They’re light, flavorful, and easy to make at home, making them a favorite for parties and gatherings. Get the recipe: Thai Spring Rolls
18. Mango Sticky Rice
Mango sticky rice is a beloved Thai dessert that combines sweet, ripe mangoes with sticky glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk. The rice is rich and creamy, while the mango adds freshness and natural sweetness. A drizzle of coconut sauce and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or mung beans complete the dish. Mango sticky rice is simple yet indulgent, offering a perfect ending to any Thai meal. It’s a favorite during mango season and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Get the recipe: Mango Sticky Rice
Thai cuisine offers an incredible variety of dishes that are both flavorful and deeply satisfying. From spicy curries and aromatic soups to fresh salads and sweet desserts, these 18 Thai recipes showcase the best of Thailand’s culinary traditions. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these dishes are sure to impress and delight. Try them at home to experience the vibrant, harmonious flavors that make Thai food a favorite around the world.
