Kaeng khiao wan is a traditional name for the fiery green curry. Although the name translates to sweet green curry, it merely refers to the color, which is known as sweet green. Thai green curry is a dish based on fragrant and spicy green chilis, brought to Thailand by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century. Fresh chilis are ground into a paste and mixed with ingredients such as galangal, shrimp paste, lemongrass, garlic, turmeric, coriander, kaffir leaves, and whole peppercorns. The paste is the heart of every green curry, a foundation which determines the final flavor of the dish. Another essential ingredient is coconut milk, which perfectly balances the spiciness of green chilis, but it also provides creaminess and a subtle sweetness. Although green paste can be easily found in specialized stores and regular supermarkets, the freshness of ingredients is the key in green curry, so it is always recommended to use fresh spices which should be ground in a mortar. Additional ingredients in the green curry are highly versatile. They usually include a protein, meat or seafood, and a variety of vegetables. When served, the dish is decorated with sliced green chilis and fresh kaffir leaves. Plain steamed rice, fragrant Jasmin rice, traditional rice noodles, and fried vegetables are often served on the side. Green Thai curry is a dish which originated in Central Thailand, but nowadays it is regarded as one of Thailand’s signature dishes. It can be found in high-end restaurants and local eateries across the country.
This fiery Thai fish curry is usually associated with Central Thailand, although similar varieties can be found throughout the country. The most popular version consists of fresh rice noodles (khanom chin) that are served with a thick and spicy curry which is based on coconut milk, white fish, and a thick curry paste that usually combines freshly ground chilis, lemongrass, shrimp paste, turmeric, and garlic. The dish is traditionally accompanied by fresh vegetables, lemon basil, and fried chilis. Traditionally, it comes topped with hard-boiled eggs.
Kaeng som is a sour, water-based Thai curry that is typically prepared with fish or shrimps and a thick paste that usually incorporates shallots, chilis, and shrimps. The dish comes in numerous varieties, and it can greatly differ depending on the region. In southern Thailand, it often incorporates turmeric and is occasionally listed on the menus as orange or yellow curry, but it should not be confused with the classic, coconut-based yellow curry known as kaeng kari. The varieties found in central regions are usually enriched with tamarind pulp that gives the dish its typical sour flavor. Kaeng som can be prepared with various vegetables, while the common modern addition also includes cha om cake - a pan-fried, egg-based dish made with acacia leaves.
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For the “Top 3 Central Thai Stews” list until June 15, 2026, 488 ratings were recorded, of which 404 were recognized by the system as legitimate.
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