When visiting Thailand, indulging in local snacks is a must to experience the country’s unique flavors and food culture. Thai snacks are perfect companions during your travels, offering a mix of sweet, salty, spicy, and sour tastes that reflect the diverse culinary traditions of the country. Here are some must-try Thai snacks that you’ll encounter almost everywhere:
What Thai Local People Like to Snack Daily Basis
Thai people enjoy a wide variety of snacks that reflect the country’s diverse culinary influences and abundant natural ingredients. Snacks are an integral part of daily life in Thailand, often enjoyed between meals or as quick bites during busy days. Here are some popular snacks that Thai people commonly eat:
Kanom Pang Ping (ขนมปังปิ้ง) – Grilled Bread with Toppings
Thick slices of bread grilled over charcoal and topped with sweet or savory toppings like butter, condensed milk, sugar, or kaya (coconut jam).
Why Thai People Love It: It’s a simple yet satisfying snack that can be sweet or savory, perfect for a quick bite with tea or coffee.
Where to Find: Street food vendors, markets, and cafes.
Moo Ping (หมูปิ้ง) – Grilled Pork Skewers
Marinated pork skewers grilled over charcoal, usually served with sticky rice. The marinade typically includes garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and pepper, giving it a sweet and savory flavor.
Why Thai People Love It: It’s flavorful, filling, and easy to eat on the go, making it a popular breakfast or snack at any time of the day. Most of the time Thai will eat with sticky rice.
Where to Find: Street vendors, especially in the morning and evening.
Tod Mun Pla (ทอดมันปลา) – Thai Fish Cakes
Spicy fish cakes mixed with red curry paste, long beans, and kaffir lime leaves, served with a sweet and tangy cucumber dipping sauce.
Why Thai People Love It: These fish cakes are packed with aromatic flavors and have a slightly chewy texture, making them a savory snack that’s highly satisfying.
Where to Find: Street vendors, markets, and food courts.
Khao Taen (ข้าวแต๋น) – Crispy Rice Cakes
Crispy rice cakes made from steamed sticky rice, which is then sun-dried and deep-fried until crispy. They are usually drizzled with sugar syrup or caramel.
Why Thai People Love It: They offer a light, crunchy texture with a hint of sweetness, perfect as a snack or to accompany tea.
Where to Find: Local markets, snack shops, and supermarkets.
Pla Meuk Yang (ปลาหมึกย่าง) – Grilled Squid
Fresh squid skewers grilled over charcoal and served with a spicy seafood dipping sauce made from lime juice, garlic, chilies, and fish sauce.
Why Thai People Love It: The smoky flavor of the grilled squid combined with the spicy, tangy dipping sauce makes this a popular snack, especially near beaches or in night markets.
Where to Find: Street vendors, especially in coastal areas and night markets.
Kanom Krok (ขนมครก) – Coconut Rice Pancakes
Small, round rice flour pancakes cooked in a special griddle, with a creamy coconut filling that is soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. Sometimes topped with green onions, corn, or taro.
Why Thai People Love It: It’s a warm, slightly sweet, and comforting snack that’s often enjoyed in the morning or as an afternoon treat.
Where to Find: Street food markets ,morning markets and evening markets.
Miang Kham (เมี่ยงคำ) – Leaf-Wrapped Bites
A traditional Thai snack made of fresh betel leaves filled with dried shrimp, coconut shreds, peanuts, ginger, shallots, lime, and a sweet and salty sauce, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.
Why Thai People Love It: This snack offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and tangy flavors, and is also considered a healthy choice.
Where to Find: Traditional markets and restaurants that serve traditional Thai appetizers.
Tao Kae Noi (เถ้าแก่น้อย) – Crispy Seaweed
A popular packaged snack of crispy seaweed seasoned with flavors such as spicy, sour, or sweet. This snack has become famous worldwide but is a staple in Thailand.
Why Thai People Love It: It’s light, crunchy, and flavorful, making it a great snack for on-the-go or enjoying with a drink.
Where to Find: Convenience stores, supermarkets, and snack shops.
Patongo (ปาท่องโก๋) – Thai Donuts
Fried dough sticks, similar to Chinese crullers, often served with sweetened condensed milk or pandan custard as a dipping sauce.
Why Thai People Love It: These golden, crispy sticks are a beloved breakfast item or snack, perfect with a cup of Thai tea or coffee.
Where to Find: Street vendors, especially in the mornings.
Khanom Buang (ขนมเบื้อง) – Thai Crispy Pancakes
Thin, crispy pancakes filled with meringue and either sweet toppings (such as foi thong – sweetened egg yolk) or savory fillings (like shrimp and shredded coconut).
Why Thai People Love It: These crispy, colorful snacks are fun to eat and offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Where to Find: Street food markets and dessert vendors.
Get Thai Snack Supper Easy
Thai snack at convenience store
If you are in Bangkok, you will never fill hungry. There are restaurants and street vendors on every corner. You can also find food and snack at convenience stores where is also easy to find in Bangkok city. The famous chain of convenience store is also included seven-eleven, 108 shop, family mart, max-value, villa, food land, big c-mini, lotus mini, lotus market, and lotus express for instance. The small home style grocery and at gestation are also be able to get it.
Those convenient stores have various kinds of Thai snack and food. Let’s get to know our Thai snack that you could enjoy from all convenient stores as follow ;
Pla Krob (ปลากรอบ)
Bake or fried small fishes mixed with herb, cashew nut, nut, chilly and sugar. It is yummy crispy fishes, spicy, and sweet. It is very delicious that everyone likes it. It uses to be famous products at eastern, southern and central province of Thailand which close to the sea. Pla Krob sales by kilogram in those areas. Now, it is put in nice packaging with brand name and a place in all convenient stores
Kloay Tak (กล้วยตาก)
Dry banana – Ripen banana is a sweet snack. Dry the ripe banana in the Sun. There are over 50 banana species. The famous banana type to make Kloay tak is Kloay Kai and Kloay Namwa. Kloay tak can also cut into small piece and mixed with cereal.
Khao Tan (ข้าวแต๋น )
This snack is rice crackers. It is also has watermelon, coconut milk and sesame. Topping with cashew nut, and coconut sugar makes it more yummy. It is a nationwide Thai snack since rice is the Thailand main product
Banana Chip (กล้วยฉาบ)
Banana ship is slide banana fried. Various flavor is on sales such as chocolate, barbeque, spicy, and sweet. The sweet taste is the most famous flavor
Durian ship (ทุเรียนทอด)
Durian is a very extreme fruits. Some people like it, some hate it. It has a strong smell that why some people do not like it. Durian comes to market during June – August. During that period , Durian may come out and cause over supply. The farmer may make it as a ship which is one way to preserve the food and make it last longer. Personally, I love Durian ship much better than potato chip
Dried Mango (มะม่วงตากแห้ง)
Dried mango is made from ripe mango slices that are dehydrated to preserve their flavor and extend their shelf life. The drying process intensifies the natural sweetness and aroma of the fruit, making it a tasty and healthy snack option.
Instant Noodles (บะหมี่กึ่งสำเร็จรูป)
Instant noodles are an integral part of daily snacking in Thailand, offering convenience and a wide range of flavors. They are easy to customize and enjoy at any time of the day, making them a beloved staple for many Thais. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a late-night snack, Thai instant noodles provide a delicious solution!
Unusual snacks in Thailand
One unusual snack you might find in Thailand is “fried insects.” They’re often sold at street markets and can include grasshoppers, crickets, or even silkworms, fried and seasoned with spices like salt, pepper, or chili. It’s a unique culinary experience that adventurous travelers often try!
Tips for Trying Unusual Snacks
- Be Adventurous: Don’t hesitate to try something new; you might discover a new favorite!
- Ask Locals: Engage with locals or vendors to get recommendations on what to try.
- Start Small: If you’re unsure, start with a small portion or share with friends to sample a variety of flavors.
Unique Snacks from 4 Regions
Each region of Thailand has their own snack, you probably don’t know where is from since you can try everywhere in Thailand. However, some of them snacks are originated from each region.
Unique Snacks from 4 Regions : Northeastern Thailand (Isaan)
Khao Ji (Isaan Grilled Sticky Rice) – made by molding sticky rice into patties, which are then dipped in a mixture of beaten eggs, salt, and sometimes a bit of fish sauce. The rice patty is grilled over charcoal until it’s golden and crispy on the outside, yet soft and chewy on the inside. Some versions also add toppings like chili paste or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Unique Snacks from 4 Regions: Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai)
Khanom Khao (Sticky Rice Cakes) – Made from sticky rice flour, these cakes are steamed and often flavored with coconut or served with a sweet coconut sauce. The chewy texture and subtle sweetness make it a comforting and traditional treat in Northern Thailand.
Unique Snacks from 4 Regions: Central Thailand (Bangkok, Ayutthaya)
Look Choop (Thai Fruit Shaped Mung Bean Candy) – Small, colorful snacks made from mung bean paste, shaped and painted to resemble miniature fruits, then glazed with gelatin. The snack is visually stunning and reflects Central Thailand’s intricate artistry in desserts.
Unique Snacks from 4 Regions: Southern Thailand (Phuket, Hat Yai)
Khanom Jak (Coconut Palm Leaf Cake) – made from a mix of sticky rice flour, shredded coconut, and palm sugar, wrapped in nipa palm leaves and grilled. It has a smoky, sweet flavor with a slightly chewy texture. Khanom Jak reflects the South’s affinity for coconut-based snacks and the traditional use of palm leaves in cooking, creating a unique blend of taste and aroma.
Great Snack Souvenir to Buy from Thailand
Suan Chitralada Milk Tablets ( นมเม็ดสวนจิตรลดา ) a popular Thai snack known for their unique shape and sweet, milky flavor. These granules have a special place in Thai culture, especially among children.
Gou Gae Crispy Peanuts( ถั่วโก๋แก่ ) Gou Gae crispy peanuts are deep-fried peanuts that are typically seasoned with various spices, giving them a unique and addictive flavor. They are known for their satisfying crunch and can be found in many markets and shops throughout Thailand.
Coconut milk candy ( ลูกอมกะทิ )Coconut milk candy has a creamy texture and a rich, sweet flavor derived from the use of fresh coconut milk. It can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a dessert platter.
Kalamae( กะละแม ) Kalamae has a chewy texture and is often molded into blocks or slices. Its flavor is a delightful blend of sweet coconut and rich palm sugar, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Taro Fish Snacks (ทาโร่) is one of Thailand’s most popular seafood-based snacks, widely loved for its unique texture, savory flavor, and convenient packaging. Made primarily from fish meat, this snack has become a staple in Thai households and a must-try for tourists seeking authentic Thai snack experiences.
Lay’s Thai Flavored Chips Lay’s in Thailand offers flavors you won’t find elsewhere, like Hot Chili Squid, Nori Seaweed, and Shrimp. These unique chips are a must-try.
Thai Tea Mix (ChaTraMue) and Thai Tea Snacks The iconic Thai tea mix is perfect for recreating the famous orange-hued drink at home. You can also find Thai tea-flavored snacks like cookies and cakes.
Dried Fruit Dried tropical fruit snacks from Thailand are popular for their rich flavors, vibrant colors, and convenient packaging. They make excellent souvenirs and snacks that capture the essence of Thailand’s diverse tropical fruits ; Jackfruit , Rambutan , Mango , Durian , Banana, Pineapple , Guava , Tamarind ,Lichi and coconut.
Thai Snacks Online
Buying Thai snacks online is a great way to enjoy the unique and bold flavors of Thailand from the comfort of your home. Sometime you come to Thailand and cannot buy and bring every back at once, online is a good choice afterall. Whether you’re looking for popular favorites or hard-to-find treats, there are numerous online platforms where you can easily order a wide variety of Thai snacks.
Popular Online Site for buying from Thailand ; if you are Thai, foreigners living in Thailand, wherever you are in this world here are some website selling Thai snacks. You can just search key words ‘Thai Snacks’ all items will pop up. Enjoy buying your favorite snack and wait for your package at the front door.
Lazada Thailand www.lazada.co.th One of the largest e-commerce platforms in Southeast Asia, Lazada offers a wide range of Thai snacks, including popular brands and unique local treats.
Shopee Thailand https://shopee.co.th/ Another major online marketplace, Shopee has numerous vendors selling authentic Thai snacks at competitive prices. It often has special promotions and discounts.
Amazon www.amazon.com Amazon offers a variety of Thai snacks, particularly those that are popular internationally. It’s a good option for those outside of Thailand looking for quick delivery.
ThaiSnackOnline www.thaisnackonline.com A specialized site that ships authentic Thai snacks worldwide, ThaiSnackOnline provides a curated selection of classic and trendy snacks from Thailand.
World of Snacks www.worldofsnacks.com This site offers international snack boxes and individual Thai snacks, perfect for those wanting to sample a variety of Thai flavors.
eBay www.ebay.com eBay hosts a range of Thai snacks from various sellers, including rare and traditional snacks not easily found elsewhere.
Snacks and Tour Around Bangkok City
If you have limited time in Bangkok and want to maximize your experience while enjoying snacks on the go, here’s a streamlined itinerary focusing on key areas and delicious street food that you can easily grab and enjoy while exploring. No need to stop for eating for along time. Grab and Go !!!
Quick Snack & Tour Itinerary for Bangkok
Morning: Chatuchak Weekend Market (if visiting on a weekend) Pick up a coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell or grilled pork skewers (moo ping) as you explore with over 15,000 stalls, you can shop for souvenirs, clothes, and unique handicrafts. I am sure you won’t walk through all stalls, just choose what you want to see and go for it.
Late Morning: Head to Or Tor Kor Market ; Walk around Or Tor Kor Market try mango sticky rice or fresh tropical fruit cups from vendors. This market is known for high-quality products and offers a great way to sample local snacks.
Lunch: Khao San Road ; stroll to Khao San Road and get a quick pad thai or banana roti from a street vendor. The area is vibrant with shops, street performers, and fellow travelers.
Afternoon: Visit the Grand Palace ; Head to the Grand Palace and on the Way Stop for crispy spring rolls or Thai fish cakes from nearby stalls. Explore the stunning architecture and the Emerald Buddha Temple. After walk to Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) . Try some dried fruit from vendors around the temple grounds while you explore.
Late Afternoon: Take a Riverboat Ride at Chao Phraya River before jump on the boat , you can pick up pork belly buns or fish balls on skewers from vendors at the pier. Take a scenic boat ride along the river, taking in the city’s skyline and historical sites.
Stop at Asiatique night market at The Riverfront ; This night market has plenty of dining options where you can grab grilled seafood or Thai desserts to go. Browse shops for unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
Tips for Snacking and Exploring Efficiently
- Choose Portable Snacks: Focus on snacks that are easy to eat while walking, like skewers, spring rolls, or fruit cups.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a bottle of water with you to stay refreshed in the heat.
- Be Time-Savvy: Use local transport (taxis, tuk-tuks, or Grab) to save time between locations.
- Plan Your Route: Use a map or GPS to plan a route that minimizes travel time between attractions.
Thai people enjoy a wide variety of snacks that are rich in flavor and reflective of the country’s culinary diversity. Whether it’s the sweet taste of coconut pancakes, the smoky allure of grilled pork skewers, or the spicy tang of Miang Kham, there’s always a snack to suit every mood and time of day. So, when visiting Thailand, dive into these local treats and experience snacking like the Thais do!
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