Exploring the Delights of Northern Thailand's Best Noodles
Khao Soi: A Northern signature dish
A trip to Chiang Mai wouldn't be complete without indulging in a bowl of the famous Thai northern dish - Khao Soi. This delectable dish consists of yellow noodles, curry soup, and tender meat, topped with crispy noodles for added texture. Let's dive into the world of Khao Soi and discover the best places to enjoy this culinary delight in Chiang Mai.
Khao Soi is a ubiquitous dish in Chiang Mai, found in every main street and loved by locals and tourists alike. However, the recipe may vary from restaurant to restaurant, adding to the excitement of exploring different variations. We did some online research and discovered some of the most popular Khao Soi restaurants in Chiang Mai.
Our first stop takes us to Khao Soi Mae Mani, a restaurant that might initially be mistaken for someone's house. However, appearances can be deceiving, and this place has been chosen by the Michelin Guide for its Bib Gourmand list since 2019. This prestigious recognition confirms its reputation as a quality restaurant offering excellent value.
The traditional Thai northern recipe served here has been perfected over the restaurant's 40-year history. The Khao Soi here features a lighter consistency, resembling more of a curry soup than a thick stew. The creamy curry flavor, coupled with the soft noodles and crispy toppings, creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Squeeze some lime juice and add a few red onions to enhance the flavor even further. If you're a fan of beef, be sure to try their beef Khao Soi - the tender meat is a delightful addition to this already delicious dish.
Khao-so-i: A Japanese Twist
Next, we visit Khao-so-i, a restaurant that combines the best of Japanese and Northern Thai cuisines. This establishment has gained popularity within a short span of six months, thanks to its unique approach. The noodles are handmade, reminiscent of Japanese ramen, while the soup maintains its Northern Thai roots.
Opting for the Khao Soi soup with beef, we were presented with a bowl of goodness topped with pickle red onions. The soup had a lighter consistency yet remained true to its Northern Thai heritage. The beef was incredibly tender, and each spoonful was a burst of flavors. My companion chose the fried Khao Soi, a noodle fry with Khao Soi chili paste. The dish offered a new and exciting take on the traditional Khao Soi. If you're a fan of exploring new flavors, this place is a must-visit.
Khao Soi Loong Prakit: A Netflix Sensation
Our next destination takes us to Khao Soi Loong Prakit, a restaurant that gained fame after being featured on the Netflix show "Somebody Feed Phil." Located in the Chinese Muslim community near Watkit, this eatery is one among many lining the street. Here, you can savor Khao Soi with a unique recipe, available only in chicken or beef variations.
The Khao Soi here had a distinct flavor profile, with the taste of coconut milk being more pronounced. The soup had a lighter consistency, and the spice level was milder compared to other Khao Soi we had tried. A taste test before adding any chili or lime is always recommended, and we found that the lime juice complemented the dish perfectly. The red onion added a delightful crunch, while the noodles resembled pasta. The chicken drumstick added a depth of flavor, making each bite a true delight.
Khao soi Pa Pai
We headed to the Chinese-muslim community near Wat ket.This little muslim community has many restaurants all along the street.Khao soi paa pai is the one on this street that sells khao soi in another different recipe. You can get only chicken or beef khao soi here.You can taste a little spices and the taste of coconut more and the soup here is not thick or rich like the other recipe.We can say this muslim-chinese recipe give you a lighter taste when compare to another.
Khao soi Lamduan Fahaam
Khaosoi Lamduan Faa Haam is a famous khao soi (egg noodles in curry sauce) restaurant in Chiang Mai, Thailand, founded by Nang Lamduan Keotrakul in 1940. She started by selling chicken and beef khao soi from a small stall on Charoenrat Road in the Faa Haam area of central Chiang Mai. Over time, the restaurant grew and became more popular, and is now a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Currently, Khaosoi Lamduan Faa Haam has four branches in Chiang Mai: the original branch on Charoenrat Road, a second branch on Khwaeng Singh Road, a third branch on Nimmanhaemin Road, and a fourth branch on Chokchai 4 Road Bangkok.
Khao soi Samoer Jai
Khao Soi Samer Jai is another famous khao soi restaurant in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is located in Faa haam area not far from Khao soi Lamduan.Khao Soi Samer Jai's curry sauce is rich and flavorful, made with a blend of spices and coconut milk. The egg noodles are soft and chewy, and the chicken or beef is tender and juicy.
The restaurant also offers a variety of toppings for its khao soi, including pickled mustard greens, shallots, lime wedges, and crispy noodles.In addition to khao soi,
Khao Soi Samer Jai also serves a variety of other northern Thai dishes, such as nam prik ong (chili dip with pork and vegetables), sai ua (northern Thai sausage), and khanom jeen nam ngiao (northern Thai rice noodles in curry sauce).Khao Soi Samer Jai is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. It is known for its delicious food, friendly service, and reasonable prices. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, seven days a week.
Khao Soi Sok Kampangdin
Khao Soi Sok Kamphaengdin [lit. meaning: Khao soi restaurant in the alleyway of the soil wall] Chiang Mai is a famous khao soi restaurant in Chiang Mai, located in Sok Kamphaengdin (Wall Corner) near Wat Chang Khon in the city center. It was founded by Lung Pun, the first-generation owner who received the khao soi recipe from Yunnanese Chinese immigrants, before developing his own unique flavor.
The highlights of Khao Soi Sok Kamphaengdin are its thick and flavorful curry sauce, soft and chewy egg noodles, and tender and flavorful chicken or beef. The restaurant also offers a variety of khao soi dishes, including chicken khao soi, beef khao soi, pork khao soi, and dry khao soi. Other northern Thai dishes are also available.
Khao Soi Sok Kamphaengdin starts at just 50 baht, making it a popular khao soi restaurant for both locals and tourists.
Exploring the Delights of Khao Soi
Each of the Khao Soi restaurants we visited had its own unique charm and offered a slightly different take on this beloved dish. From the traditional flavors of Khao Soi Mae Mani to the fusion of Japanese and Northern Thai cuisine at Khao Soi Lam Duan Fa haam, and the fame of Khao Soi Loom Prakert, we had an unforgettable culinary experience in Chiang Mai.
So, if you find yourself in Chiang Mai, make sure to carve out some time to sample the delights of Khao Soi. Whether you prefer the traditional recipe or want to explore new variations, these restaurants will satisfy your cravings. Each bowl of Khao Soi tells a story, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Chiang Mai.
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