The next country featured in our “Around the World of Cuisine in six months” is Thailand.  

As part of the diverse selection of Asian cuisine, Thailand’s four regions each offer their own unique dishes, incorporating varying influences from neighbouring countries.  Each region has their own style of preparation and cooking techniques, combining local traditions and ingredients, resulting in a diverse variety of delicious specialties across the regions.

The most well-known Thai dishes that are commonly known internationally hale from Central Thai Cuisine.  With a major Chinese influence, the region is known for classic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai and their selection of green curries.  Their cuisine is less spicy than some of the neighbouring regions making it a popular choice internationally.

Known for offering some of the spiciest selection of Thai food, Southern Thai Cuisine has strong Malaysian influences and offers a vast selection of curries with varying levels of spiciness.  Popular dishes to this region are Massaman and Penang curries.

Northern Thai Cuisine promises a less spicy, fragrant selection of dishes that are known for their Burmese cuisine influence.  Their signature dish, Khao Soi noodles combines soft and crunchy noodles with a coconut curry base that can be prepared with a variety of protein but is most commonly prepared with chicken.  This memorable and popular dish originates from the City of Chiang Mai.

Northeastern Thai Cuisine (Isaan) is commonly popular across Thailand with flavoursome dishes seasoned with a wide selection of herbs, fresh chilies and garlic that combine for a sour and spicy decadent flavour.  Isaan cuisine is strongly influenced by Laos and Cambodian (Khmer) cuisine.  A popular regional dish and commonly found “street food” is Som Tam (Papaya Salad), combining shredded raw green papaya with tomatoes, peanuts, onions, chili with sauces.  

Interestingly Isaan cuisine features some not so traditional proteins including a variety of insects, ant eggs, snakes and frogs! 

Look out for our upcoming articles featuring Thai restaurants in Cayman or go ahead and make a reservation now.

By Juliette Heath

Juliette Heath is a Caymanian foodie, weddings and events planner, and author of kids’ books.