Thai Poultry Dishes That Are Served with Special Thai Relishes

Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and aromatic dishes, particularly its poultry offerings that are often paired with special relishes. These relishes, known as 'nam prik', accentuate the natural flavors of the chicken or duck, creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some must-try Thai poultry dishes that are served with unique Thai relishes.

1. Gai Pad Krapow (Stir-Fried Chicken with Holy Basil)

Gai Pad Krapow is a popular street food dish made with minced chicken stir-fried with garlic, chili, and fresh holy basil. This aromatic dish is often served with a side of nam prik pao, a spicy chili relish made from roasted chilies, garlic, and shrimp paste. The combination of the savory chicken and the rich, smoky relish creates a perfect harmony of flavors.

2. Tod Mun Gai (Chicken Cakes)

These delicious chicken cakes are made by blending minced chicken with Thai herbs and spices, then deep-fried to perfection. Tod Mun Gai is typically served with a tangy nam jim jeaw, a spicy and sour dipping sauce made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili. The zesty relish complements the crispy exterior of the chicken cakes perfectly.

3. Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken)

Gai Yang, or Thai grilled chicken, is marinated in a mixture of coconut milk, lemongrass, and various spices before being grilled over charcoal. This dish is often accompanied by nam chim jaew, a spicy dipping sauce that combines roasted rice powder, lime juice, and fresh herbs. The rich flavors of the chicken pair beautifully with the bold and spicy relish.

4. Pad See Ew Gai (Stir-Fried Noodles with Chicken)

This dish features flat rice noodles stir-fried with chicken, soy sauce, and vegetables. It is often served with a side of nam pla phrik, a simple yet flavorful relish made from fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped chilies. The salty and spicy notes of the nam pla phrik enhance the overall taste of the Pad See Ew, making it a favorite among Thai food lovers.

5. Kam Heong Gai (Stir-Fried Chicken with Curry Powder)

Kam Heong Gai is a delicious stir-fried dish featuring chicken cooked with a blend of curry powder, soy sauce, and various vegetables. This dish is typically served with nam prik ong, a slightly sweet and spicy red chili dip made from minced pork and tomatoes. The sweetness of the relish balances the savory notes of the dish and provides an exceptional flavor experience.

6. Gai Larb (Spicy Chicken Salad)

Larb is a traditional Thai salad that features minced chicken mixed with ground rice, lime juice, and fresh herbs. This refreshing dish is often accompanied by nam prik num, a green chili relish that adds an extra kick to the already flavorful salad. The combination of textures and the punchy relish make this dish a must-try.

Thai poultry dishes are not only satisfying on their own but are elevated even further when paired with special Thai relishes. The intricate balance of flavors, textures, and aromas is what makes dining on Thai cuisine a unique experience. For anyone looking to explore the delicious world of Thai food, these poultry dishes with their accompanying relishes are definitely worth sampling.