19 Best Thai Dishes You Can Easily Make at Home

Exploring Thai cuisine at home can be an exciting culinary adventure, filled with bold flavors and fragrant spices. From spicy curries to refreshing salads, Thai dishes bring a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Here are 20 versatile and easy-to-make Thai recipes that capture the essence of authentic Thai cooking while adding a few creative twists. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, these dishes are delicious. Enjoy the flavors and aromatic ingredients that make Thai food so irresistible.

1. Tom Yum Soup with Quinoa

Tom Yum Soup is a classic Thai dish known for its mix of spicy, sour, and savory flavors. To make an easy at-home version, start by boiling 500 ml of chicken broth. Add 2 tablespoons of red curry paste, and mix in 200 grams of quinoa. Let it simmer for 20 minutes. Incorporate 100 grams of sliced mushrooms and 150 grams of fish for a protein-rich touch. Add 2 tablespoons of fish sauce and 3 tablespoons of lime juice for that authentic taste. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped lemongrass. This version uses quinoa instead of rice for a unique twist without losing the original charm.

2. Mango and Sticky Rice Sushi Rolls

This innovative take on the traditional Thai dessert combines sweet mango and sticky rice into a sushi roll. To prepare, cook 200 grams of glutinous rice and mix it with 100 ml of coconut milk and 50 grams of sugar. Spread the sticky rice over a sushi mat. Place thin slices of ripe mango over the rice and carefully roll it into a sushi roll shape. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing. These rolls offer a refreshing dessert option that combines the delightful creaminess of coconut milk with the luscious sweetness of mango, presenting a familiar yet novel dessert experience.

3. Green Curry Pasta with Tofu

Green Curry Pasta merges the aromatic flavors of Thai green curry with the comfort of pasta. Start by cooking 200 grams of spaghetti. In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of green curry paste with 200 ml of coconut milk. Add 150 grams of tofu cubes, frying until golden. Combine the pasta with the curry sauce. Stir in a handful of fresh basil and 100 grams of sliced bell peppers for added crunch and color. This fusion dish blends Thai and Italian elements, making it an exciting dish to prepare and enjoy, retaining the essence of Thai green curry while introducing a familiar pasta base.

4. Thai Iced Tea with Berry Twist

Thai Iced Tea is a beloved beverage, and adding a berry twist gives it a refreshing new dimension. Begin by brewing 4 tablespoons of Thai tea leaves in 500 ml of hot water. Strain and mix in 100 grams of sugar until dissolved. Allow it to cool before adding 100 ml of condensed milk. To add a fruity twist, muddle 50 grams of mixed berries in the bottom of each glass before pouring the tea. Serve over ice. This inventive drink combines the rich, creamy flavor of traditional Thai iced tea with a hint of berry freshness, excellent for a hot day or a fun gathering.

5. Grilled Pineapple with Chili-Lime Sauce

Grilled Pineapple with Chili-Lime Sauce offers a tantalizing blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Slice a ripe pineapple into rings and grill until lightly charred. For the sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of chili flakes. Drizzle over the grilled pineapple and garnish with fresh mint leaves. This dish makes a side or a light dessert, showcasing the bold flavors typical of Thai cuisine. The grilling enhances the pineapple’s natural sweetness, while the sauce adds an exciting contrast, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

6. Lemongrass and Ginger Chicken Skewers

Lemongrass and Ginger Chicken Skewers are a flavorful addition to any meal. Marinate 500 grams of chicken breast pieces in a mixture of 3 tablespoons of lemongrass paste, 2 tablespoons of ginger, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce for at least one hour. Thread onto skewers and grill until cooked through. The aromatic blend of lemongrass and ginger infuses the chicken with flavors, while grilling adds a smoky depth. Serve with a side of fresh herbs or a simple cucumber salad. This dish not only offers a taste of Thai street food but is also a healthy, easy-to-make option.

7. Pad Thai with Zucchini Noodles

Pad Thai with Zucchini Noodles offers a lighter version of the traditional Thai favorite. Use a spiralizer to make noodles from 2 large zucchinis. In a pan, stir-fry 200 grams of fish with 2 tablespoons of fish sauce and 3 tablespoons of tamarind paste. Add the zucchini noodles and toss with 100 grams of bean sprouts, 50 grams of chopped peanuts, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice. This dish retains the essential flavors of traditional Pad Thai while replacing rice noodles with a healthier alternative, resulting in a fresh meal.

8. Coconut and Basil Ice Cream

Coconut and Basil Ice Cream offers a unique dessert experience with a combination of aromatic basil and creamy coconut. To make this ice cream, blend 400 ml of coconut milk with 100 grams of sugar and a handful of fresh basil leaves. Freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker. The result is a refreshing treat that harnesses the tropical flavors of coconut and the herbaceous notes of basil. This ice cream not only serves as a palate cleanser but also introduces a delightful surprise to the dessert table, capturing the innovative spirit of Thai cuisine.

9. Spicy Watermelon Salad

Spicy Watermelon Salad brings an exciting twist to a summer classic. Start by cubing half a watermelon and toss with 2 tablespoons of lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of chili flakes. Add 50 grams of crumbled feta cheese and a handful of fresh mint leaves. This salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of lime and the heat of chili, resulting in a refreshing yet bold dish. Excellent for a hot day, the salad is both hydrating and flavorful, showcasing the creative use of simple ingredients in Thai cuisine.

10. Thai Basil Chicken with Cauliflower Rice

Thai Basil Chicken with Cauliflower Rice is an appealing low-carb alternative to a traditional favorite. Stir-fry 300 grams of chicken thigh pieces with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and a handful of fresh basil. Add 100 grams of sliced bell peppers for color and crunch. Prepare cauliflower rice by grating a medium cauliflower head and cooking it in olive oil. Serve the chicken over the cauliflower rice, garnished with lime wedges. This dish maintains the integrity of traditional Thai basil chicken while offering a nutritious twist, making it suitable for those seeking healthier meal options.

11. Pumpkin and Kaffir Lime Soup

Pumpkin and Kaffir Lime Soup offers a comforting, aromatic dish highlighting the flavors of Thai cuisine. Begin by roasting 500 grams of pumpkin until tender. In a pot, cook 2 tablespoons of red curry paste, adding the roasted pumpkin and 400 ml of coconut milk. Simmer until smooth. Add a few kaffir lime leaves for an aromatic twist. This soup provides a creamy texture with a hint of spice, complemented by the citrusy notes of kaffir lime, making a warm, inviting meal that captures the essence of traditional Thai ingredients in a comforting soup form.

12. Papaya and Mango Salad Wraps

Papaya and Mango Salad Wraps offer a fresh dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors. Shred 200 grams of green papaya and 150 grams of ripe mango. Toss with 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and a sprinkle of chili flakes. Wrap the mixture in large lettuce leaves and serve with a simple dipping sauce of soy sauce and lime juice. These wraps provide a light, refreshing option that showcases the bright flavors of Thai cuisine, ideal as an appetizer or a light lunch, offering a taste of the tropics in every bite.

13. Pineapple Fried Rice with Cashews

Pineapple Fried Rice with Cashews is a flavorful Thai dish that combines sweet and savory elements. Cook 200 grams of jasmine rice and set aside. In a wok, cook 100 grams of diced pineapple, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and a handful of chopped cashews. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry with 50 grams of green onions and a hint of curry powder. Serve in a hollowed-out pineapple for an exotic presentation. This dish captures the essence of Thai street food, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that make it a hearty and satisfying meal.

14. Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry

Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry is a dish that brings together the flavors of Thai sweet chili sauce and fresh vegetables. Cube 200 grams of tofu and fry until golden. In a wok, combine the tofu with 150 grams of sliced bell peppers, 100 grams of broccoli, and 3 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. This dish offers a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal option that highlights the versatility of tofu in Thai cooking.

15. Thai Coconut Pancakes with Pandan

Thai Coconut Pancakes with Pandan are a delightful dessert showcasing the flavors of coconut and pandan. Prepare the batter by mixing 200 grams of rice flour, 100 ml of coconut milk, and a few drops of pandan extract. Cook small pancakes on a griddle. Serve with a drizzle of coconut syrup. These pancakes are light, fluffy, and infused with tropical flavors, offering a unique dessert experience that’s both comforting and exotic. Ideal for breakfast or as a sweet treat, they reflect the traditional Thai taste with a hint of creative flair.

16. Chili Lime Popcorn

Chili Lime Popcorn is a simple yet flavorful snack that brings a Thai-inspired twist to classic popcorn. Start by popping 100 grams of popcorn kernels. Toss with 2 tablespoons of lime juice, a pinch of chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt. The combination of tangy lime and spicy chili offers a refreshing change from traditional popcorn flavors. This snack is ideal for a casual gathering or movie night, providing a light and zesty treat that captures the playful and inventive side of Thai cuisine in a convenient, enjoyable form.

17. Red Curry with Duck

Red Curry with Duck is a luxurious Thai dish featuring tender slices of duck simmered in a rich red curry sauce. Cook 400g of duck breast until golden, then slice thinly. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and fry 2 tablespoons of red curry paste until aromatic. Pour in 400ml of coconut milk and simmer. Add 100g of cherry tomatoes and 100g of pineapple chunks for sweetness and acidity. Stir in 1 tablespoon of fish sauce and 1 teaspoon of sugar for balance. Garnish with 10g of fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy with 200g of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

18. Peanut and Banana Spring Rolls

Peanut and Banana Spring Rolls are a sweet twist on traditional spring rolls, ideal for dessert. Mash 2 ripe bananas and mix with 100 grams of crushed peanuts. Spoon the mixture into spring roll wrappers and fry until golden brown. Serve with a honey dipping sauce. These rolls offer a crunchy exterior with a soft, sweet filling, combining the familiar taste of bananas with the nutty flavor of peanuts. This innovative dessert captures the essence of Thai creativity in the kitchen, providing a delightful and unexpected way to enjoy classic ingredients.

19. Sticky Rice Balls with Black Sesame

Sticky Rice Balls with Black Sesame offer a simple yet intriguing dessert. Cook 200 grams of sticky rice and form into small balls. Roll in black sesame seeds for a crunchy coating. Serve with a coconut dipping sauce made from 100 ml of coconut milk and a dash of sugar. This dish provides a chewy texture with a nutty flavor, showcasing the creative use of sticky rice in Thai desserts. The combination of textures and subtle sweetness offers a satisfying conclusion to a meal, reflecting the charm and innovation typical of Thai culinary traditions.