The Most Popular Seafood in Thailand’s Coastal Regions

Thailand's coastal regions are renowned for their diverse and delicious seafood. The combination of fresh ingredients, unique flavors, and traditional cooking techniques makes Thai seafood stand out globally. Here are some of the most popular seafood items you’ll find along Thailand's stunning shores.

1. Tom Yum Goong
One of Thailand's most famous dishes, Tom Yum Goong is a spicy and sour shrimp soup that showcases the vibrant flavors of the coastal regions. This dish typically includes fresh shrimp, fragrant lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, all cooked in a zesty broth. Its popularity goes beyond Thailand, making it a staple in Thai restaurants worldwide.

2. Som Tum with Seafood
While the original Som Tum is a green papaya salad, the coastal regions elevate it by adding a variety of seafood such as squid, shrimp, or crab. The spicy and tangy dressing made from fish sauce, lime juice, and chili pairs perfectly with the fresh seafood, making it a refreshing dish, especially in the hot climate.

3. Grilled Fish (Pla Pao)
Grilled fish, or Pla Pao, is a popular street food item found across Thailand's coastal areas. Whole fish, often sea bass or snapper, are coated in a thick layer of salt and grilled until crispy. Served with a spicy dipping sauce and fresh herbs, this dish highlights the beautiful flavors of the ocean while offering a simple yet delicious culinary experience.

4. Crab Curry (Pu Pad Pong Kari)
Coconut crab curry is a specialty of southern Thailand. Prepared with succulent crab meat and a rich yellow curry paste made from turmeric, garlic, onion, and spices, this dish is typically finished with coconut milk, creating a creamy and flavorful experience. Served with rice, it’s a must-try for any seafood lover.

5. Fried Morning Glory with Seafood
This stir-fried dish combines fresh morning glory, a popular vegetable in Thailand, with a mix of seafood such as shrimp or squid. The dish is flavored with garlic, chili, and oyster sauce, resulting in a combination of crunchy vegetables and tender seafood that embodies the farm-to-table freshness of Thai cuisine.

6. Fish Cakes (Tod Mun Pla)
Fish cakes are a common appetizer along Thailand’s coastal regions. Made from minced fish mixed with curry paste, these cakes are then deep-fried and served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. They are often enjoyed as a snack or as part of a larger meal, showcasing the rich flavors of Thailand's seafood.

7. Soft Shell Crab
Soft shell crab has gained immense popularity, particularly in coastal areas where this delicacy is freshly harvested. Prepared in various ways, such as fried or stir-fried, soft shell crab is loved for its tender texture and the easy way it can be incorporated into both traditional and contemporary dishes.

8. Seafood Pancakes (Khanom Jeeb)
These Thai steamed seafood dumplings are filled with a mixture of minced seafood, beans, and spices, wrapped in a delicate rice flour dough. Known for their chewy texture and savory filling, Khanom Jeeb are commonly served as appetizers and are cherished by both locals and tourists.

Exploring Thailand's coastal seafood is not just about tasting food; it's about indulging in the rich culinary traditions shaped by the ocean. Each dish tells the story of the region's culture and its connection to the sea, making every bite a memorable experience.