Thai cuisine has long been celebrated worldwide for its bold flavors, fragrant herbs, and the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. This harmonious fusion has made Thai food a favorite among food lovers everywhere.
According to the latest Taste Atlas Awards 2023/2024, several Thai dishes have once again made the list of the world’s most beloved foods. This year’s #1 spot, however, goes to “Picanha,” a classic Brazilian grilled beef dish that has captivated food enthusiasts with its simple yet powerful taste.
Let’s take a look at the Top 5 Thai dishes that have earned global recognition, as well as the worldwide favorite that clinched the top spot.
Pad Kra Pao (Stir-Fried Holy Basil)
Pad Kra Pao is a staple in Thai cuisine, beloved for its simplicity and fiery flavor. Stir-fried with garlic, chili, and fresh holy basil, it can be made with a variety of meats, such as minced pork, chicken, beef, or seafood. The dish is typically served with hot steamed rice and topped with a crispy fried egg.
What makes Pad Kra Pao so special is its universal appeal. Whether at a local street food stall or an upscale restaurant abroad, this dish represents Thai food with pride. It’s often referred to as Thailand’s “unofficial national dish” and has earned the admiration of food lovers worldwide.
Khao Soi (Northern Thai Curry Noodles)
Khao Soi is a Northern Thai dish that stands out for its unique combination of soft egg noodles in a rich, aromatic coconut curry broth, topped with crispy fried noodles. Accompaniments like pickled mustard greens, sliced shallots, and lime add the perfect touch of flavor.
This dish is a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors. It’s a favorite among both locals and international travelers, with visitors to Northern Thailand often praising it as a “must-try” dish. Khao Soi continues to be celebrated globally for its distinctive and delicious taste.
Panang Curry
Panang Curry is known for its creamy coconut milk base, infused with the aromatic and fragrant Panang curry paste. The curry is sweet, savory, and mildly spicy, with a unique depth of flavor. Commonly made with pork, chicken, or beef, it’s topped with kaffir lime leaves and red chili for extra zest.
For those who prefer a milder curry, Panang Curry is the perfect option. Its subtle heat and rich flavors have made it a global favorite, showcasing the best of Thai cuisine without overwhelming the palate.
Tom Kha Gai (Chicken Coconut Soup)
Tom Kha Gai is a soothing coconut soup infused with the bold flavors of galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. The rich coconut milk base, combined with tender chicken and mushrooms, creates a smooth, velvety texture, while a squeeze of lime adds a touch of brightness.
This dish is particularly popular among those who are not used to extremely spicy food, as its mild heat makes it an approachable yet flavorful choice. Tom Kha Gai remains one of the most beloved soups worldwide, thanks to its perfect balance of flavors.
Massaman Curry
Massaman Curry is often referred to as the “King of Thai Curries” due to its rich, complex flavors, influenced by Indian and Persian cuisines. The curry is made with a variety of spices, simmered in coconut milk, and typically includes beef, chicken, or lamb, along with tender potatoes for extra richness.
Massaman Curry has earned international acclaim, even winning “World’s Best Food” in several rankings. Its unique flavor profile and smooth texture have made it a standout dish that continues to represent Thai food on the world stage.
1 Dish of Taste Atlas Awards 2023/2024: Picanha from Brazil
The top dish of this year’s Taste Atlas Awards is Picanha, a classic Brazilian grilled beef dish known for its tender texture and rich flavor. The cut, taken from the rump cap, features a perfect layer of fat that makes the meat juicy and flavorful. Picanha is typically seasoned simply with salt and grilled over low heat until perfectly cooked.
Its simplicity, paired with high-quality ingredients and expert grilling techniques, has made Picanha a global favorite. This dish shows the power of quality ingredients and classic cooking methods, earning its place as the top food in the world.
The five Thai dishes—Pad Kra Pao, Khao Soi, Panang Curry, Tom Kha Gai, and Massaman Curry—each represent the incredible variety and depth of Thai cuisine. These dishes highlight the unique and unforgettable flavors that have made Thai food beloved around the world.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s Picanha, crowned the #1 dish, shows how quality ingredients and traditional techniques can create a truly exceptional culinary experience. Together, these dishes not only offer remarkable flavors but also share the culture and history behind each dish, making food an experience that transcends borders and brings people together.
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Story: Krongthong
Image: Freepik
Sources: Taste Atlas
