Udon Thani, located in northeastern Thailand, is renowned for its vibrant Isaan cuisine. Visitors can indulge in a variety of dishes that showcase the region's bold flavors and culinary traditions. Here are some must-try foods when in Udon Thani:
What to Eat in Udon Thani
Udon Thani, located in northeastern Thailand, is famous for its vibrant Isaan cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes when visiting:
1. Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)
A quintessential Isaan dish, Som Tum is a spicy and tangy green papaya salad, often prepared with fermented fish sauce and served with sticky rice. Variants like Som Tum Tad, which includes additional ingredients like fermented fish, vermicelli noodles, and boiled eggs, are also popular.
2. Pla Pao (Grilled Fish)
Udon Thani is known for its freshwater tilapia, especially the salt-crusted grilled fish called Pla Pao. The fish is stuffed with herbs and grilled to perfection, often served with a side of sticky rice.
3. Laab Pla (Fish Salad)
A variation of the traditional Laab, this dish uses minced fish mixed with herbs, lime juice, and chili. It’s a refreshing and spicy salad that pairs perfectly with sticky rice.
4. Tom Saap (Spicy Soup)
A hot and sour soup made with pork ribs, lemongrass, and herbs. It's a staple in Isaan cuisine, offering a balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors.
5. Khao Piak Sen
A comforting noodle soup made with rice noodles in a rich broth, often topped with steamed pork and herbs. It’s a popular dish for breakfast or any time of the day.
6. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers)
These marinated pork skewers are grilled over charcoal and typically served with sticky rice. Moo Ping is a favorite street food snack in Udon Thani.
7. Khanom Krok
A traditional Thai dessert made from coconut milk and rice flour, cooked in a special pan to create small, crispy pancakes. They are sweet and slightly savory, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
8. Fresh Fruit Juices
Given the tropical climate, fresh fruit juices such as passion fruit, guava, and orange are widely available and are perfect for the hot weather.
Udon Thani's food scene offers a wide array of bold, flavorful dishes that are essential for anyone visiting the region. Whether you’re exploring the local street food or dining in one of the city’s restaurants, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds.
