Northern Thai cuisine, known for its unique flavors and regional specialties, offers a delightful culinary adventure. From spicy sausages to hearty curries, here’s a comprehensive guide to must-try Northern Thai dishes and where to find them in Chiang Mai.
1. Khao Soi (ข้าวซอย)
A rich and creamy curry noodle soup, Khao Soi is perhaps the most famous Northern Thai dish. Made with egg noodles, coconut milk, and curry broth, it is often topped with crispy noodles and served with lime, pickled mustard greens, and shallots.
- Where to Try Khao Soi:
- Khao Soi Khun Yai: Located near the Old City, this small, unassuming restaurant is renowned for its authentic Khao Soi.
- Khao Soi Mae Sai: A popular spot with locals, known for its rich and flavorful broth.
2. Sai Ua (ไส้อั่ว)
Sai Ua, or Northern Thai sausage, is a spicy, aromatic sausage made from minced pork, herbs, and spices. The sausage is typically grilled and has a distinctive flavor profile due to ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal.
- Where to Try Sai Ua:
- Warorot Market (Kad Luang): This bustling market is one of the best places to sample freshly grilled Sai Ua.
- Huen Phen: A traditional restaurant in the Old City, known for its authentic Northern Thai dishes, including Sai Ua.
3. Gaeng Hang Lay (แกงฮังเล)
Gaeng Hang Lay is a rich pork belly curry that originates from Burma but has been adapted into Northern Thai cuisine. This dish is made with pork, garlic, ginger, and tamarind, giving it a unique sweet and tangy flavor.
- Where to Try Gaeng Hang Lay:
- SP Chicken: A local favorite, SP Chicken serves a delicious version of Gaeng Hang Lay, along with its famous rotisserie chicken.
- Tong Tem Toh: A trendy restaurant in the Nimmanhaemin area, known for its traditional Northern Thai dishes.
4. Nam Prik Noom (น้ำพริกหนุ่ม)
Nam Prik Noom is a spicy green chili dip made from roasted green chilies, garlic, shallots, and cilantro. It is typically served with fresh vegetables, sticky rice, and pork cracklings (Kaep Mu).
- Where to Try Nam Prik Noom:
- Huen Muan Jai: Located near the Old City, this restaurant is famous for its authentic Northern Thai cuisine, including Nam Prik Noom.
- Warorot Market (Kad Luang): Various vendors sell Nam Prik Noom, often made fresh daily.
5. Larb Muang (ลาบเมือง)
Unlike the Isaan version of larb, Northern Thai larb (Larb Muang) is made with minced pork or beef and seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, including dried chili and blood, giving it a darker color and richer flavor.
- Where to Try Larb Muang:
- Khum Vieng Yong: This restaurant specializes in Northern Thai cuisine and serves a highly recommended Larb Muang.
- Huen Jai Yong: Located a bit outside the city center, this restaurant offers a rustic ambiance and excellent Northern Thai dishes, including Larb Muang.
6. Kaeng Khanun (แกงขนุน)
Kaeng Khanun, or young jackfruit curry, is a unique Northern Thai dish made with tender jackfruit, pork ribs, tomatoes, and spices. It has a slightly sweet and savory flavor.
- Where to Try Kaeng Khanun:
- Khao Soi Lam Duan Fah Ham: Known primarily for its Khao Soi, this restaurant also serves an excellent Kaeng Khanun.
- Huen Muan Jai: In addition to Nam Prik Noom, this restaurant offers a delectable version of Kaeng Khanun.
7. Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao (ขนมจีนน้ำเงี้ยว)
A traditional Northern Thai noodle dish, Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao features rice noodles in a spicy and tangy tomato-based broth, often with minced pork, pork blood, and dried cotton flowers.
- Where to Try Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao:
- Khao Soi Mae Sai: Besides their famous Khao Soi, they also offer a delicious Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao.
- Mae Hia Market: Various vendors sell Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao, allowing visitors to sample different versions of this dish.
References:
- TasteAtlas: Northern Thai Cuisine
- Migrationology: Best Northern Thai Dishes
- Chiang Mai Citylife: Northern Thai Food Guide
- Eating Thai Food: Northern Thai Food
Exploring Northern Thai cuisine is an adventure through rich flavors and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these dishes and the recommended places will give you an authentic taste of Northern Thailand.
Enjoy your culinary journey in Chiang Mai!