Are you ready to spice up your meal routine with bold flavors and vibrant colors? Look no further! Thai cuisine has long been celebrated for its fresh ingredients, aromatics, and bold spices. With 18 mouth-watering recipes in this collection, you’ll discover the perfect blend of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors that will leave you craving more. From classic dishes like Tom Yum Soup with Shrimp to innovative twists on traditional recipes, these flavorful and healthy Thai recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Thai Green Papaya Salad
This refreshing Thai Green Papaya Salad, also known as Som Tam, is a classic street food dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. The combination of crunchy green papaya, tangy tomatoes, and spicy chilies will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized green papaya
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrot, chopped peanuts)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Peel the green papaya and grate it into thin strips.
2. In a large mortar and pestle, combine grated papaya, mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and minced chilies.
3. Pound the mixture with the pestle until it’s well combined and slightly crushed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy dish that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of grilled chicken! This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, Thai basil leaves, and cilantro leaves. Blend until smooth.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush the blended mixture on the grilled chicken during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve with steamed vegetables and a side of jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tom Yum Soup with Shrimp
This classic Thai soup is a staple of Southeast Asian cuisine, with its bold flavors and aromatic spices. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with the signature Tom Yum broth for a truly authentic taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 4-6 shrimp (peeled and deveined)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons tom yum paste
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic, ginger, tom yum paste, mushrooms, lemongrass, and chili flakes to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Return shrimp to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Quinoa Salad with Peanut Dressing
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the creamy richness of peanut dressing, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water or broth. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, red bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, and peanuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Thai Lemongrass Chicken
This aromatic and flavorful dish combines the bold flavors of lemongrass, lime, and chilies with succulent grilled chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, lime juice, chili flakes, and brown sugar. Blend until smooth.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemongrass mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry with Vegetables
This creamy and aromatic curry is a staple of Thai cuisine, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. With the added crunch of vegetables, it’s a nutritious and satisfying option for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 medium-sized yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in the Thai red curry paste and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mango Sticky Rice with Coconut Milk
A classic Southeast Asian dessert, Mango Sticky Rice with Coconut Milk combines sweet and creamy flavors to create a heavenly treat. This simple recipe brings together the best of tropical flavors in just a few steps.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice (also known as “sticky” or “sweet” rice)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 ripe mango, sliced into wedges
– Fresh lime juice and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and cook according to package instructions using a 1:3 ratio of rice to water.
3. In a separate pan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
4. Serve cooked sticky rice with sliced mango and drizzle with the coconut milk mixture.
5. Garnish with lime juice and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including soaking time)
Thai Stir-Fried Glass Noodles
A flavorful and quick Thai-inspired stir-fry that combines the tender texture of glass noodles with a medley of colorful vegetables and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles (also known as cellophane noodles or bean thread noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook glass noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and tofu; stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
4. Add curry paste, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add cooked glass noodles to the wok; stir-fry until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with a twist of sweetness from pineapple, making it a delicious and healthy meal option. With minimal oil and plenty of vegetables, this dish is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional minute.
4. Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the veggies.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry the rice with the veggies and add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Butter Tofu Skewers
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Thai-inspired skewers, featuring tender tofu marinated in a creamy peanut butter sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or evening appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 20 bamboo skewers
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Place the tofu cubes in a shallow dish. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the tofu, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Thread 3-4 tofu cubes onto each bamboo skewer.
4. Grill or bake the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve warm with fresh cilantro leaves and your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Cucumber Salad with Chili Lime Dressing
This Thai-inspired salad is a perfect summer treat, combining the coolness of cucumber slices with the spicy kick of chili lime dressing. With only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, this refreshing salad is ready to quench your thirst for something new.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Kirby cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and fish sauce (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Steamed Fish with Thai Herbs
This simple recipe combines the freshness of fish with the aromatic flavors of Thailand, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and nutritious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 stalks lemongrass
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Rinse the fish fillets and pat them dry.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil, and garlic.
4. Place the fish fillets in the steamer basket and sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Cauliflower Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this vibrant and nutritious curry dish, made with cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups of coconut milk
– 1/4 cup of fish sauce
– 1/4 cup of lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high. Add the curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and stir to coat with the curry sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Pumpkin Soup with Coconut
This vibrant orange soup is a twist on traditional Thai curries, blending the warmth of coconut milk with the comfort of roasted pumpkin. With aromatic spices and a hint of heat, this recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast pumpkin cubes for 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, coconut milk, and broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai-inspired Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with these quick and refreshing chicken lettuce wraps. Crispy cooked chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy sauce come together in a delightful bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, mint, cilantro)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or coconut oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken breast with curry paste, soy sauce, and honey. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook the chicken in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat oil in a pan and add chopped scallions. Cook until crispy.
5. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken on mixed greens, topping with crispy scallions, and drizzling with lime juice. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hearty Thai Lentil Soup
This comforting and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of spicy and savory, packed with nutritious lentils and aromatic spices. Serve it with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add lentils, coconut milk, broth, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Thai Beef Salad with Fresh Herbs
This refreshing salad combines tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing, all topped with a medley of fresh herbs for added depth of flavor. A perfect dish for a light and satisfying meal or as a side to accompany your favorite Thai dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1 tsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, bean sprouts, and cherry tomatoes.
2. In a separate pan, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until cooked through. Slice into smaller pieces.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and red pepper flakes. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with cooked beef, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Baked Thai Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
A delicious twist on traditional spring rolls, these baked bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with a tangy sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup cooked and shredded chicken or tofu
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine carrots, cabbage, scallions, and cooked chicken or tofu.
3. Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Brush edges with soy sauce and fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling. Fold in the sides and then roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange spring rolls on the sheet, leaving some space between each roll.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors and vibrant spices of Thailand with these 18 delicious and healthy recipes. From spicy stir-fries to creamy curries, refreshing salads, and comforting soups, this collection has something for every taste and dietary preference. With authentic ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, and coconut milk, these dishes showcase the rich culinary heritage of Thailand. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for inspiration, this article is sure to ignite your passion for cooking and exploring new flavors.
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