Time Travelling Tastes: The Most Historic Dishes to Enjoy in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a city that dates all the way back to 1296, so it’s not surprising that its long-standing culture includes a rich array of delicious dishes. Here are some of Chiang Mai’s best eats that you need to try to truly appreciate the city’s vast culinary history.
Khao Soi
This curry-based coconut milk noodle soup is always at the top of most food lists and menus at Chiang Mai restaurants. It’s an explosion of flavours and textures, with the fried crunchy noodles at the top giving way to soft, boiled noodles below.
Nam Prik Ong
Often served alongside a platter of cauliflower, okra, eggplant and cabbage, this pork tomato chilli dip is quite similar to a thick spaghetti sauce. It’s also great with fried pork cacklings, boiled eggs and sausages.
Gaeng Hung Lay
This northern Thai dish features big chunks of slow-cooked pork belly and plenty of ginger, and is best enjoyed with jasmine steamed rice, sticky rice or noodles. You’ll find many variations of it at street-side eateries or contemporary restaurants at hotels such as Anantara Chiang Mai Resort.
Khao Kha Moo
This hearty rice dish is known for the large succulent pork leg that’s served on top alongside pickled greens, an egg and mustard chilli sauce. It’s one of those dishes that you’ll definitely return to at least once.
Khanom Bua Loi
As far as desserts go, this one tastes way more complex than it looks. It’s a serving of rice balls immersed in coconut milk that combines creamy and chewy textures to create a welcome burst of sweetness with every spoonful.