Isaan Food

Isaan food is the bold, everyday cuisine of Northeast Thailand. Known for its spicy, sour, and deeply savory flavors, Isaan cooking relies on fresh herbs, toasted rice powder, fermented fish sauce (pla ra), grilled meats, and sticky rice. 

Start with classics like Som Tum Isaan (green papaya salad), Larb Moo (Thai pork larb), and Gai Yang (Thai grilled chicken). Add bold sides like Sai Krok Isaan (fermented sausage), Crying Tiger beef, Beef Larb and soups like Gaeng Om. 

Many recipes also highlight essential Isaan ingredients like pla ra, MSG and toasted rice powder (Khao Khua).

These recipes reflect the food I grew up eating in Isaan. Rustic, unapologetic, and full of flavor.