The Most Popular Thai Dish in America, Ranked

Choose the dish you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 25, 2024 07:13
Deciding on what to eat at a Thai restaurant can often be an overwhelming task given the rich variety of dishes available. A guide ranking the most popular Thai dishes in America could simplify the decision-making process by highlighting top choices based on public opinion. This allows diners to see what dishes resonate most with fellow food enthusiasts. Participating in the voting process not only aids in creating a more accurate and reflective ranking but also gives individuals a voice in shaping a collective culinary landscape. By casting a vote, users contribute to a more dynamic and representative appreciation of Thai cuisine across the nation. It's a chance to support favorite dishes and discover what others enjoy.

What Is the Most Popular Thai Dish in America?

  1. 1
    46
    points
    Pad Thai

    Pad Thai

    A stir-fried rice noodle dish commonly served as a street food and at most restaurants in Thailand.
    • Main Ingredients: Rice noodles, eggs, tofu, tamarind pulp, fish sauce, dried shrimp, garlic, red chili pepper, palm sugar, lime, peanuts
  2. 2
    15
    points
    Massaman Curry

    Massaman Curry

    A rich, relatively mild Thai curry that is an interpretation of a Persian dish.
    • Main Ingredients: Coconut milk, massaman curry paste, meat (usually beef, chicken, or duck), potatoes, peanuts, bay leaves, sugar, cinnamon, tamarind sauce
  3. 3
    15
    points
    Green Curry

    Green Curry

    A central Thai variety of curry that is distinguished by its bright green color, which comes from green chili peppers.
    • Main Ingredients: Coconut milk, green curry paste, chicken, bamboo shoots, Thai basil, Thai eggplant
  4. 4
    10
    points
    Red Curry

    Red Curry

    Made with red curry paste, coconut milk, meat, bamboo shoots, basil, and vegetables, this dish is a staple in Thai cuisine.
    • Main Ingredients: Coconut milk, red curry paste, meat (chicken, beef, pork, shrimp), bamboo shoots, Thai basil
  5. 5
    9
    points
    Mango Sticky Rice

    Mango Sticky Rice

    A traditional Thai dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk.
    • Main Ingredients: Glutinous rice, coconut milk, ripe mangoes, palm sugar, salt
  6. 6
    0
    points
    Som Tum

    Som Tum

    A spicy salad made from shredded unripe papaya. It is of Lao origin but has become popular throughout Thailand.
    • Main Ingredients: Unripe papaya, chili peppers, lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, palm sugar, tomatoes, dried shrimp, peanuts
  7. 7
    0
    points
    Tom Yum Goong

    Tom Yum Goong

    A hot and sour Thai soup usually cooked with shrimp.
    • Main Ingredients: Shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, lime juice, fish sauce, chili peppers
  8. 8
    0
    points
    Pad See Ew

    Pad See Ew

    A dish made from stir-fried wide rice noodles in a dark soy sauce with chicken, pork, or beef, along with Chinese broccoli and egg.
    • Main Ingredients: Wide rice noodles, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, garlic, meat (chicken, pork, beef), Chinese broccoli, egg
  9. 9
    0
    points
    Thai Iced Tea

    Thai Iced Tea

    A popular creamy beverage made from strongly brewed Ceylon tea, sugar, and milk.
    • Main Ingredients: Black tea, sugar, condensed milk, evaporated milk
  10. 10
    0
    points
    Khao Pad

    Khao Pad

    Thai fried rice that can include a variety of meats, vegetables, and sometimes pineapple.
    • Main Ingredients: Rice, egg, onion, garlic, meat (chicken, shrimp, crab), tomatoes, soy sauce, sugar, salt

Missing your favorite dish?

Graphs
Error: Failed to render graph
Discussion
No discussion started, be the first!

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Thai dish in America. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Dish is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2195 views
  • 95 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Dish once every 24 hours. The rank of each Dish is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Thai Dish in America

Pad Thai
Rank #1 for the most popular Thai dish in America: Pad Thai (Source)
Thai cuisine has gained immense popularity in America over the years. The rich flavors, vibrant colors, and aromatic spices have captivated the taste buds of many. Thai food is known for its balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors. This balance creates a unique and memorable dining experience.

The roots of Thai cuisine trace back to ancient times. Influences from neighboring countries like China, India, and Malaysia have shaped it. These influences have blended with local ingredients and cooking methods to create a distinct culinary tradition.

Thai dishes often use fresh herbs and spices. Common ingredients include lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the dishes. Fish sauce, a staple in Thai cooking, provides a salty and umami flavor. Coconut milk is also frequently used, adding a rich and creamy texture.

In America, Thai food became popular in the late 20th century. Thai immigrants opened restaurants, introducing Americans to their cuisine. The exotic flavors and healthy ingredients attracted many. Over time, Thai food has become a staple in American dining culture.

Thai cuisine offers a wide range of dishes. There are soups, salads, stir-fries, curries, and noodle dishes. Each dish has its own unique flavor profile. Some are mild and aromatic, while others are bold and spicy. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone.

One key aspect of Thai cuisine is the use of fresh ingredients. Vegetables, herbs, and spices are often sourced locally. This focus on freshness enhances the flavors and nutritional value of the dishes. Many Thai dishes are also light and healthy, making them a popular choice for health-conscious diners.

Thai food is often enjoyed with rice or noodles. Rice, especially jasmine rice, is a staple in Thai cuisine. It serves as a base for many dishes. Noodles are also common, with different types used in various dishes. These include rice noodles, egg noodles, and glass noodles.

Thai cuisine also emphasizes the importance of balance. Dishes are crafted to ensure that no single flavor overpowers the others. This balance is achieved through careful selection and combination of ingredients. It creates a harmonious and satisfying dining experience.

The popularity of Thai food in America has led to the availability of Thai ingredients in grocery stores. This has made it easier for people to cook Thai dishes at home. Many Americans have embraced Thai cooking, experimenting with recipes and ingredients.

Thai cuisine has also influenced American food culture. Fusion dishes that combine Thai flavors with other culinary traditions have emerged. These dishes offer a new and exciting way to enjoy Thai flavors.

In conclusion, Thai cuisine has become a beloved part of American dining culture. Its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and emphasis on balance have won over many. Whether dining out or cooking at home, Americans continue to enjoy the diverse and delicious offerings of Thai cuisine.

Share this article