Must try - Famous Traditional Lanna Dishes
Welcome to the culinary heart of Northern Thailand - Chiang Mai. This city isn't just about picturesque landscapes; it's a paradise for food lovers. Here, the unique flavors of Lanna cuisine await you. But first, let's understand what Lanna cuisine is all about.
Lanna Cuisine: A Taste of Northern Thailand's History Lanna, meaning "land of a million rice fields," refers to the region in Northern Thailand with a rich history and distinct cultural identity. Lanna cuisine is characterized by bold flavors, fresh herbs, and an emphasis on local ingredients. It's less sweet than typical Thai food but brings a complexity of tastes that range from earthy and herbal to fiery and tangy.
Now, let's dive into the top 5 Lanna dishes you must try in Chiang Mai:
Khao Soi (ข้าวซอย): This iconic noodle dish is the crown jewel of Northern Thai cuisine. A creamy, spicy coconut curry broth, filled with egg noodles and topped with crispy noodles, is served with a choice of chicken, beef, or tofu. It's garnished with pickled mustard greens, shallots, lime, and ground chilies fried in oil. Favorite Khao Soi restaurants: Khao Soi Khun Yai, Khao Soi Samerjai, Khao Soi Lamduan and Netflix famous Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom
Sai Oua Northern Thai Sausage (ไส้อั่ว): A fragrant and spicy sausage, Sai Oua is packed with flavors of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and red curry paste. This grilled delicacy is a perfect representation of the aromatic and bold flavors of Lanna cuisine. Our favourite Sai Oua stores include: ร้านไส้อั่ว ป้าคำ, Dumrong Northern Thai Food Shop, and ไส้อั่วคำแปง (มหิดล)
Nam Prik Ong (น้ำพริกอ่อง): This spicy tomato and pork mince dip is a staple in Northern Thai households. Served with a variety of fresh vegetables and sticky rice, it's a delightful blend of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Gaeng Hang Lay Burmese-Style Pork Curry (แกงฮังเล): Influenced by neighboring Burma, this slow-cooked pork belly curry is rich with a mix of ginger, turmeric, and tamarind. The result is a deliciously complex dish with layers of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
Miang Kham (เมี่ยงคำ): A traditional snack that's a burst of flavors in a single bite. Miang Kham consists of a leaf (often betel) wrapped around a mix of shallots, lime, peanuts, dried shrimp, ginger, and coconut, topped with a sweet and salty sauce.
As you explore Chiang Mai's vibrant street food scene, each dish tells a story of the Lanna people's heritage and their harmonious relationship with the land. From bustling night markets to quaint roadside stalls, the city offers an endless array of flavors waiting to be discovered.
Did you know we offer a cooking class that can teach you how to cook all the above dishes from scratch? Most of the herbs can be found in our organic garden. Check out our cooking class in the activities section and remember, the best way to experience this culinary adventure is with an open mind and an adventurous palate!