Phuket not only offers a great living and tourism experience, but also mouth-watering local ‘southern’ cuisine. Sometimes spicy, here are the top five dishes you should try when visiting Phuket. There are plenty of other but these would be the most well known.
Tom Yum Goong
Tom Yum Goong, a famous Thai dish, is a must-try in Phuket. This spicy and sour soup is made with lemongrass, chili, and coconut milk, and is usually prepared with seafood such as prawns or shrimp. However, there are also versions made with chicken and pork ribs. Tourists who cannot handle spicy food should approach this dish with caution.
Massaman Curry
Originating from Muslim Malaysia, Massaman Curry is a fusion dish that combines Thai and Indian cuisine. Unlike other curries, it does not contain curry leaves but includes a blend of herbs and spices such as lemongrass, galangal, and tamarind paste, mixed with beef, chicken, or pork. Coconut milk is added to create a creamy texture, and it is served with rice.
Mee Hokkien Noodle
Mee Hokkien Noodle is a stir-fried noodle dish originating from Fujian, China, but has become a popular food in Phuket. It consists of thick golden noodles stir-fried with shrimp, pork, squid, eggs and bean sprouts, and is served with sambal chili and lemon. This dish is typically eaten for lunch or tea-time in Phuket. It can also be served up as a vegetarian dish.
Por Pia
Por Pia is a Thai spring roll that is stuffed with meat, vegetables, crunchy pastry, prawns, and rice noodles. It is then deep-fried until crispy and served with a special sauce made with a unique recipe. Por Pia is a popular appetizer or snack among tourists, and restaurants such as Lock Tien in Phuket Old Town or Natural Restaurant in Talad Yai, Muang, serve this dish.
Khao Man Gai
Khao Man Gai, also known as chicken rice, is a simple but delicious dish that is a favorite among both locals and tourists. It is made by boiling chicken until tender and using the chicken broth to cook the rice, which absorbs all the flavors and nutrients. It is served with chicken stock and a spicy-sweet sauce and is a perfect lunch option.
In addition to these classic dishes, Phuket also offers some unique southern Thai cuisine, such as Gaeng Tai Pla, a spicy and sour fish curry, and Khao Yam, a salad made with rice, vegetables, and herbs. These dishes offer a taste of the distinct flavors and spices found in southern Thai cuisine.
