The Best Thai Mezes to Serve with Rice

Thai cuisine is renowned for its incredible flavors and aromatic ingredients, and when paired with rice, they create a satisfying and delectable meal. Mezes, or small dishes, are perfect for complementing rice and can elevate your dining experience. Here are some of the best Thai mezes to serve with rice that will entice and delight your taste buds.

1. Som Tum (Papaya Salad)
Som Tum is a refreshing salad made from green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, and peanuts, dressed with lime juice, fish sauce, and chili. This zesty dish adds a burst of flavor and crunch that pairs beautifully with the softness of rice, making it an ideal starter or side.

2. Satay Skewers
Thai satay skewers are marinated pork, chicken, or beef grilled to perfection and served with a rich peanut sauce and a side of cucumber salad. The smoky, savory flavors of the meat combined with the creamy peanut sauce create a delightful contrast to plain rice.

3. Larb (Spicy Salad)
Larb is a Thai meat salad typically made with minced meat, herbs, and spices. The combination of lime juice, fish sauce, and Thai chili creates a spicy and tangy dish that can be served warm or at room temperature. Served with rice, larb provides a hearty option that is both nutritious and full of flavor.

4. Pad Krapow Moo Saap (Stir-Fried Basil Pork)
This iconic dish consists of minced pork stir-fried with Thai basil and garlic. The aromatic flavors are intensified with the addition of soy sauce and sugar. Serving Pad Krapow with rice allows you to enjoy the dish's savory sauce, soaking into the grains of rice for a deliciously satisfying meal.

5. Gai Pad Med Mamuang (Chicken with Cashew Nuts)
This delightful stir-fry features chicken and crispy cashew nuts tossed in a sweet and savory sauce. The crunchy cashews provide texture to the dish, while the combination of sauces enhances the flavors, making this a fantastic side to accompany rice.

6. Khao Pad (Thai Fried Rice)
For a twist, consider serving Khao Pad, a fragrant Thai fried rice that incorporates garlic, shallots, and vegetables. It can be made with chicken, seafood, or tofu, and is often garnished with cucumber and lime. This dish not only complements rice but is a delicious way to use leftover rice as well.

7. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
This famous Thai soup is packed with shrimp and herbs, featuring a balance of spicy and sour flavors. The robust broth and tender shrimp create a wonderful dish that when enjoyed with rice, allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience.

8. Thai Spring Rolls
Crunchy and fresh, Thai spring rolls are filled with a mixture of vegetables or meat, often served with a sweet chili dipping sauce. These mini delights make for a light and crispy accompaniment to rice, enhancing your overall meal.

9. Moo Pad Krapow (Basil Fried Pork)
Similar to Pad Krapow Moo Saap but made with beef or other meats, Moo Pad Krapow is another fantastic option. The fragrant basil and spicy ingredients create a delightful stir-fry that pairs excellently with rice.

Incorporating these Thai mezes into your meal will not only satisfy your palate but also provide a colorful and aromatic dining experience. The diversity of flavors in each dish complements the simplicity of rice, making for a well-rounded and enjoyable meal.