Thai Soups You Can’t Find Anywhere Else

Thai cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, aromatic herbs, and a unique balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. While Thai food enthusiasts commonly know staples like Tom Yum and Tom Kha, there are lesser-known Thai soups that are just as delicious and tantalizing. Here’s a journey through some unique Thai soups that you may not encounter elsewhere.

1. Khao Soi

Khao Soi is a northern Thai specialty that features a rich coconut curry broth, perfect for those looking to indulge in creamy flavors. Traditionally served with egg noodles, it's topped with crispy fried noodles and accompanied by pickled mustard greens, lime, and shallots. The combination of textures and tastes in Khao Soi makes it a must-try for soup lovers.

2. Gaeng Som

Gaeng Som is a sour curry soup often prepared with tiger prawns or fish. What sets this dish apart is its use of tamarind, which gives it a signature tanginess. Combined with fresh vegetables like cabbage and bamboo shoots, Gaeng Som offers a refreshing twist that is not commonly found in Thai restaurants outside of its home country.

3. Nam Prik Nua

This traditional northern Thai dish is a spicy soup made with grilled beef, fresh herbs, and a mix of seasonings. Nam Prik Nua is typically served with rice and a variety of fresh vegetables. The grilled flavor combined with the spicy broth creates an explosion of tastes that is both hearty and satisfying.

4. Tom Sab

Tom Sab is a spicy and sour soup hailing from the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isaan. Often made with pork or beef, this soup is zesty due to the addition of roasted rice powder which gives it a smoky flavor. Served with aromatic herbs like Thai basil and cilantro, Tom Sab is a comforting bowl of warmth and zest that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.

5. Kaeng Hoh

Originating from Thailand’s northern provinces, Kaeng Hoh is a vegetable-rich soup made with a variety of meats (usually pork or chicken) and an aromatic blend of herbs and spices. Unique to this dish is its use of fermented fish sauce, which enhances the overall depth of flavor. This soup perfectly captures the essence of Thai home cooking, making it a delightful discovery for food adventurers.

6. Larb Nam Sang

Unlike your regular soup, Larb Nam Sang is a boiled meat dish served in a light, herby broth. Typically made with minced chicken or pork, it’s flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, and a sprinkle of roasted rice powder. The fresh herbs, paired with the warmth of the broth, create a refreshing experience not to be missed.

7. Tom Yum Nam Khon

A variation of the classic Tom Yum soup, Tom Yum Nam Khon includes the same fragrant ingredients but is enriched with coconut milk, giving it a creamy texture. This soup often features seafood such as shrimp, making it a delightful option for those looking for a unique twist on a familiar favorite.

Exploring these unique Thai soups will take you beyond the basic palette of Thai culinary delights. Each of these soups tells a story about the region it comes from, showcasing the depth and diversity of Thai cuisine. If you ever find yourself in Thailand, or at a Thai restaurant that prides itself on authenticity, don’t miss out on trying these exquisite, lesser-known soups!