Mae Sai, a charming town on the northern tip of Thailand, is not only known for its bustling border market but also for its diverse and delectable cuisine. Situated at the frontier with Myanmar, Mae Sai offers a unique blend of Thai and Burmese culinary traditions. This guide highlights the top 10 local eats that you simply can’t miss when visiting Mae Sai.
1. Khao Soi: Northern Thailand’s Signature Dish
Khao Soi is a must-try when in Mae Sai. This rich and creamy coconut curry noodle soup is a staple of Northern Thai cuisine. The dish consists of egg noodles submerged in a fragrant coconut curry broth, topped with crispy noodles, and served with a side of pickled mustard greens, shallots, and lime. The perfect blend of spices and textures makes Khao Soi an unforgettable culinary experience.
2. Sai Oua: Northern Thai Sausage
Another Northern Thai delicacy is Sai Oua, a flavorful sausage made with minced pork, herbs, and spices. The sausage is grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky and aromatic flavor. Often served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables, Sai Oua is a delightful treat for meat lovers.
3. Burmese Tea Leaf Salad: A Taste of Myanmar
Given Mae Sai’s proximity to Myanmar, it’s no surprise that Burmese Tea Leaf Salad is a popular dish here. Known locally as Lahpet Thoke, this salad features fermented tea leaves mixed with crunchy nuts, seeds, tomatoes, and cabbage, all tossed in a tangy dressing. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes this salad a refreshing and healthy option.
4. Gaeng Hang Lay: Northern Pork Curry
Gaeng Hang Lay is a slow-cooked pork curry that is less spicy but incredibly rich in flavor. Made with tender chunks of pork belly simmered in a blend of spices, tamarind, and ginger, this curry has a slightly sweet and tangy taste. It’s typically served with steamed rice, making it a comforting and hearty meal.
5. Nam Prik Ong: Northern Thai Chili Dip
For those who enjoy spicy food, Nam Prik Ong is a must-try. This Northern Thai chili dip is made from minced pork, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, creating a savory and slightly spicy dip. It’s usually served with fresh vegetables and crispy pork rinds, perfect for dipping and snacking.
6. Kaeng Khanun: Jackfruit Curry
Kaeng Khanun is a unique curry made with young jackfruit. The jackfruit is cooked in a spicy and flavorful curry broth, often with the addition of pork or chicken. This dish is known for its rich taste and the distinct texture of the jackfruit, making it a standout on any menu.
7. Moo Ping: Grilled Pork Skewers
Moo Ping are marinated grilled pork skewers that are a popular street food in Mae Sai. The pork is marinated in a mixture of garlic, soy sauce, and coconut milk, then grilled over charcoal until juicy and tender. These skewers are typically served with sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce.
8. Som Tum: Spicy Green Papaya Salad
Som Tum is a spicy green papaya salad that is a staple in Thai cuisine. This dish is made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and dried shrimp, all tossed in a tangy and spicy dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili peppers. It’s a refreshing and zesty salad that balances the heat with the sweetness of the papaya.
9. Pad Thai: Thailand’s Famous Noodle Dish
No food guide would be complete without mentioning Pad Thai, Thailand’s most famous noodle dish. This stir-fried noodle dish is made with rice noodles, eggs, tofu, shrimp, and a mix of vegetables, all cooked in a tangy sauce made from tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar. It’s garnished with crushed peanuts and lime wedges, adding a delightful crunch and tanginess.
10. Khanom Krok: Coconut Pancakes
For a sweet treat, try Khanom Krok, traditional Thai coconut pancakes. These small, round pancakes are made from a mixture of rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, cooked in a special pan with small round indentations. The result is a crispy exterior with a soft and creamy center. They are often topped with sweet corn, green onions, or taro, adding a unique twist to the sweetness.
