Thai food has become one of the most loved international cuisines in the United States—and for good reason. It’s colorful, flavorful, fresh, and packed with variety. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just getting started, this guide will introduce you to some of the most popular Thai food for Americans, along with a little background on what makes Thai cuisine so special.
Why Do Americans Love Thai Food?
Thai cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Each dish usually has a mix of these flavors, making every bite interesting. Thai food also uses fresh herbs, vegetables, and a wide variety of spices, making it both healthy and satisfying.
Many Americans also enjoy Thai food because it has a lot of options for different diets. Whether you eat meat, are vegetarian, or prefer gluten-free options, Thai food has something for you.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular Thai dishes in the U.S.
Popular Thai Food for Americans
1. Pad Thai
Pad Thai is one of the most well-known Thai dishes in the United States. It’s a stir-fried noodle dish made with rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp or chicken, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a flavorful tamarind-based sauce.
What makes Pad Thai popular is that it’s sweet, tangy, a little savory, and not too spicy—perfect for beginners trying Thai food for the first time.
Fun Fact:
In Thailand, Pad Thai is often cooked in street markets and served with a wedge of lime and a small pile of crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
2. Tom Yum Soup
Tom Yum is a hot and sour soup that usually includes shrimp, mushrooms, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chili, and lime juice. It’s a great dish if you like bold and spicy flavors.
Americans who enjoy spicy foods often fall in love with Tom Yum. It’s not just flavorful, it’s also refreshing and full of herbs that support digestion and health.
3. Green Curry
Thai Green Curry is made with green chili paste, coconut milk, Thai basil, and vegetables like bamboo shoots and bell peppers. You can usually order it with chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.
Green Curry is creamy, slightly sweet, and has a spicy kick. The spice level can vary depending on where you order it, but it’s one of the more adventurous dishes that Americans grow to love over time.
4. Massaman Curry
This curry is perfect for those who prefer milder flavors. Massaman curry is made with coconut milk, cinnamon, cardamom, potatoes, peanuts, and a protein like beef or chicken.
Massaman has influences from Indian and Persian cuisines and is rich, slightly sweet, and comforting. It’s a great entry point into Thai curries for Americans who are new to the cuisine.
5. Som Tum (Papaya Salad)
Som Tum is a spicy green papaya salad made with shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, lime, garlic, and chili.
It’s crunchy, refreshing, spicy, and sour, all at the same time. While it may be a more adventurous choice, many Americans end up loving it for its bold flavor and healthy ingredients.
6. Thai Fried Rice
Thai fried rice is different from Chinese fried rice. It’s made with jasmine rice, eggs, onions, and a choice of meat or seafood. It’s usually flavored with fish sauce, garlic, and sometimes a hint of sugar.
It’s a simple, familiar dish that many Americans choose when they want something tasty but not too spicy. It’s often served with a lime wedge and cucumber slices on the side.
7. Pad See Ew
Pad See Ew is another noodle dish that’s popular across the U.S. It’s made with wide rice noodles, soy sauce, garlic, Chinese broccoli, and egg. You can usually choose chicken, pork, beef, or tofu as the protein.
It’s savory, a little smoky, and has a chewy texture thanks to the noodles. Americans who like hearty dishes with a simple flavor profile often choose this over other spicy dishes.
8. Thai Iced Tea
No Thai meal is complete without Thai iced tea. It’s a sweet drink made from strongly brewed black tea, spices, and condensed milk. It’s served over ice and has a creamy, caramel-like flavor.
It’s one of the most popular drinks in Thai restaurants in the U.S. and a great way to cool down after a spicy meal.
9. Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
Drunken Noodles are wide rice noodles stir-fried with fresh chili, garlic, basil, and vegetables. They’re spicy and full of flavor. Despite the name, there’s no alcohol in the dish.
The name comes from the idea that it’s the perfect food after a night out. Americans love it for the heat and bold flavor, especially if they enjoy spicy dishes.
10. Mango Sticky Rice
For dessert, Mango Sticky Rice is a must-try. It’s made with sweet sticky rice, ripe mango slices, and coconut milk. It’s a simple, refreshing dessert that perfectly ends a Thai meal.
Many Americans enjoy it because it’s not overly sweet and feels lighter than traditional desserts.
Thai Food and American Taste Preferences
Over the years, Thai restaurants in the U.S. have adapted dishes to suit American tastes. That means you’ll often find a range of spice levels, ingredient options, and portion sizes that are familiar yet still true to the original recipes.
Here are a few reasons why Thai food continues to grow in popularity:
- Customizable: You can choose the spice level and type of protein.
- Healthy ingredients: Many Thai dishes are rich in vegetables, herbs, and lean meats.
- Variety: From noodles to rice to soups and salads, there’s something for every craving.
- Affordable: Thai food is often reasonably priced, especially for the quality and flavor.
Tips for Ordering Thai Food for the First Time
If you’re new to Thai food, here are some tips to get started:
- Start with mild dishes like Thai fried rice or Pad Thai if you’re not a fan of spicy food.
- Ask for spice level options; most restaurants will let you choose from mild to extra spicy.
- Try something new, like Thai iced tea or mango sticky rice.
- Share with others, Thai food is great for sharing, which lets you try a bit of everything.
- Ask for recommendations from your server if you’re unsure.
Thai Food is More Than Just a Meal
Beyond the delicious flavors, Thai food reflects a rich culture of hospitality and balance. Meals are often served family-style, encouraging sharing and conversation. Thai culture values harmony, and that’s reflected in the way dishes are designed to balance different tastes and textures.
Eating Thai food is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about experiencing a piece of Thai culture and tradition.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or prefer something on the milder side, Thai cuisine has something for everyone. The blend of fresh ingredients, vibrant spices, and bold flavors makes it a favorite among Americans.
From Pad Thai to mango sticky rice, Thai food offers a delicious journey through one of the world’s most flavorful cuisines.
Thinking of Trying Thai Food?
If you live in Orlando or nearby, or you’re planning a trip, don’t miss the chance to try authentic Thai cuisine at Lim Ros Thai Restaurant. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Thai food lover, our menu has something for every taste. Stop by and enjoy the bold flavors of Thailand, right here in the heart of Orlando.
