Thai Seafood in the Northern Region: What to Try

The Northern region of Thailand is often celebrated for its stunning landscapes and distinct cultural heritage, but it also boasts a delectable array of Thai seafood dishes that are worth exploring. While this region may not be as famous for seafood as coastal provinces, it offers unique interpretations that fuse local ingredients and flavors. Here’s a guide on what to try when it comes to Thai seafood in the North.

1. Pla Pao (Grilled Fish)
One of the must-try dishes is Pla Pao, which features whole fish that are coated in salt and grilled over an open flame. The salt crust helps lock in moisture, resulting in juicy, flavorful fish. It's often served with a spicy dipping sauce made from chili, lime, and fish sauce. Locals prefer using freshwater fish, such as tilapia or catfish, making it a distinctly northern dish.

2. Kaeng Som Pla (Sour Fish Curry)
Kaeng Som Pla is a sour curry that is highly regarded in northern Thai cuisine. This dish typically features fish, such as tilapia or mackerel, cooked in a tangy broth made from tamarind paste, turmeric, and chili. It's usually served with an assortment of vegetables, providing a balanced and refreshing meal that embodies the vibrant flavors of the region.

3. Yam Pla Dook Foo (Crispy Catfish Salad)
This dish features crispy fried catfish that is shredded and tossed with a salad of green mango, herbs, and a zesty dressing. The combination of crunchy textures and tangy flavors makes Yam Pla Dook Foo a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It's a perfect appetizer or light meal that showcases the region’s seafood offerings.

4. Pla Kapong Neung Manao (Steamed Fish with Lime)
An exquisite dish that highlights the freshness of the fish is Pla Kapong Neung Manao. This steamed fish is typically seasoned with lime juice, garlic, and chili, creating a burst of flavors. The simplicity of the cooking method allows the natural sweetness of freshwater fish to shine through, making it a healthy and delicious choice.

5. Larb Pla (Fish Larb)
Larb, a minced meat salad that originates from the northeastern region of Thailand, also has its seafood version in the North. Larb Pla combines raw or cooked fish with fresh herbs, lime juice, and roasted rice powder. It’s a refreshing and aromatic dish that pairs perfectly with sticky rice, making it a staple at many local eateries.

6. Seafood Noodle Soup (Kuy Teav)
While not exclusively seafood, Kuy Teav is a noodle soup that can be found throughout northern towns, featuring variations with shrimp, squid, or fish balls. This delicious bowl of broth is flavored with herbs and spices, served with fresh garnishes like bean sprouts and lime, providing a comforting and satisfying meal.

7. Sataw Salad with Seafood
Sataw, or stink beans, are often used in northern Thai cuisine and are occasionally combined with seafood in salads. Paired with shrimp or fish, along with a spicy dressing, this dish highlights the unique flavors of sataw while offering a delightful contrast with the seafood's tenderness.

Exploring the seafood of Thailand's Northern region is an exciting culinary adventure. From grilled fish to aromatic salads, each dish boasts complex flavors and showcases the region’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients. Visitors are encouraged to seek out local markets and roadside stalls to experience these dishes at their freshest. Whether dining at a restaurant or in the vibrant street food scene, savoring northern Thai seafood is sure to be a highlight of any visit.