Food is another main reason that I enjoy travelling so much. Food is something I really enjoy, it's a passion passed on to me by my parents both of whom are incredible cooks. Everyone in my family is fond of a good hearty meal but some of us (incl me) are a bit more curious. I always make it a point to try the best dishes that are part of the city's culture and heritage. I do enjoy fusion food but understanding the stories behind the origin of the cuisine makes me enjoy every meal even more.
Here is our list for the must try foods if you're on a short trip to Chiang Mai-
1. Khao Soi
This delectable Coconut Curry based dish is an absolute treat to the senses. It is a dish, de facto signature to northern Thailand. It is a perfect curry dish spiced well and balanced with the creamy fresh coconut milk. I had various versions of it, where it may have varied based on the spice mix etc but no where in Chiang Mai this dish is a disappointment. It is a must have and I crave for it every time. This dish in also a part of Myanmar and Burma's cuisine, of course with their own minor variations.
2. Phad Thai
This world famous dish has so many versions to it. But no matter how good you make it at home, it would never taste better than that on the streets of Thailand. This dish was introduced during WW II, when Thailand had rice shortage. This led to the government promoting noodles to be eaten instead. And this gave rise to Phad Thai, a sweet and sour rice noodle dish. There are many versions of this that one finds on the streets, with additions of Pork, Chicken and Tofu along with shallots, green onion springs and that lip smacking sauce of palm sugar, fish sauce and lime. Why do I love this dish so much, because texturally this dish is amazing. It has flavor, it has crunch, it has the perfect balance between sweet and tang.
3. Thai Green/Yellow Curry
Absolutely loved it! The Indian in me is truly fond of a good curry. I enjoy a curry that has good balance and solid curry base that binds everything together. Am extremely fond of trying curry based dishes where ever I go. Thai Curry has a innate warmth to it that is carried through the ingredients that form the curry paste. The good thing is when in Thailand, you know it for a fact that they make the curry paste fresh; pounding it to fine paste by hand for hours. That's what makes this curry a well bodied, so that no matter what you add to it- veggies or meat; it brings the whole dish together. A must eat dish! Also if in Thailand get a few packets of the curry paste, because they are much better than what you would find in your supermarkets.
4. Thai Sausages
Well I had never heard of this or seen this before I planned my travel to Chiang Mai. It's found mostly in Chiang Mai also known as 'Chiang Mai sausage' or 'Sau Ua'. It's not to tightly packed like a typical sausage but enough to retain a sausage shape. This is jam pack with flavor; contains minced pork, herbs, spices and curry paste. It is a delight on a palette that loves bold flavours. If you're in northern part of Thailand or Chiang Mai do give it a try. This definitely would give stiff competition to the regular breakfast sausages.
5. Raw Papaya Salad
There is no point coming to Thailand and not eating this - The Raw Papaya /Mango salad. Originating from ethnic region of Laos this dish is very popular worldwide and is quite easy to make. The one that I ate was a little spicy, considering the kick of the Thai chilly. Again, this is a great crunchy salad that balances the sweet and sour flavors well. It has a good kick to it from the chilly but is very refreshing to kill the heat. Mind you, even if you're bold with your chilly do watch out for the Thai chilly. Always ask for it to be toned down if you're not up for getting yourself burnt.
6. Thai Coffee
The one thing that truly amazed me during my trip here in Thailand, is the quality of the coffee served here. From the breakfast buffet coffee, to the ones served in small cafes. The coffee was very aromatic and savoury. Do try coffee in the various cafes and your hotel too; you will be mightily surprised at that quality. Its not to acidic at all but divine in smell and taste. Whether its iced coffee or hot coffee, they're all equally good. There is also a great cafe culture that has caught on with the tourist influx, one must experience.
Overall the food culture of Chiang Mai is catching up to include dishes from not only northern part of Thailand but other areas too. When in Thailand remember that the local food of the street markets and small sit outs is as good as any fine dining. Go crazy! for I would definitely return for another food trip.