Food In Pha Taem National Park

Food History of Pha Taem National Park, Issan, Thailand

The cuisine of Issan, Thailand's northeastern region, including the area surrounding Pha Taem National Park, is distinct and full of flavors that define the local gastronomy. Historically, the food in Issan has been influenced by both Lao and Khmer cultures, given the region's proximity to Laos and Cambodia. With agriculture being predominant in the region, Issan food is known for its use of fresh vegetables, herbs, and fiery chilies. Sticky rice is a staple and is often accompanied by an array of dips, grilled meats (excluding beef for the context of this overview), and salads that utilize fish, pork, and chicken.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Pha Taem National Park, Issan, Thailand

1. Som Tam (Papaya Salad) - Non-Veg/Veg (vegetarian versions available): A spicy salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and chilies, often served with dried shrimp or salted crab.
2. Laab Gai (Spicy Chicken Salad) - Non-Veg: A zesty and herby minced chicken salad with mint, lime juice, fish sauce, and roasted ground rice.
3. Tom Saap (Sour and Spicy Soup) - Non-Veg: A hot and sour soup typically made with pork ribs or chicken and flavored with tamarind, lemongrass, and galangal.
4. Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken) - Non-Veg: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection, often eaten with sticky rice and som tam.
5. Tam Taeng Kwaa (Cucumber Salad) - Veg: A fresh cucumber salad with a similar dressing to som tam, a good option for vegetarians.
6. Yam Woon Sen (Glass Noodle Salad) - Non-Veg/Veg (vegetarian versions available): A tangy and fresh salad made with glass noodles, minced pork or seafood, and a range of vegetables.
7. Kaeng Om (Aromatic Herb Stew) - Non-Veg: A hearty stew containing chicken or fish, dill, lemongrass, and traditional Issan spices.
8. Saikrok Issan (Issan Sausage) - Non-Veg: A fermented sausage made with pork and sticky rice, flavored with garlic and chilies.
9. Nam Tok Moo (Spicy Pork Salad) - Non-Veg: A dish similar to laab but made with grilled pork, combined with mint, lime, fish sauce, and toasted rice powder.
10. Jay (Vegetarian Dishes) - Veg: During the vegetarian festival, many vegetarian versions of Issan dishes can be sampled.

Top Famous Restaurants in Pha Taem National Park, Issan, Thailand

1. Pha Taem Cliffside Restaurant
   Address: Near the entrance of Pha Taem National Park
   Famous Food: Som Tam (Papaya Salad), Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken) - Non-Veg
2. Issan Eatery Baan Suan
   Address: Overlooking the Mekong River, Ubon Ratchathani Province
   Famous Food: Laab Gai (Spicy Chicken Salad) - Non-Veg
3. Tam Taeng Kwaa Noi
   Address: Close to the national park’s visitor center
   Famous Food: Tam Taeng Kwaa (Cucumber Salad) - Veg
4. Rim Kong Café
   Address: Along the Mekong riverfront, Khong Chiam District
   Famous Food: Yam Woon Sen (Glass Noodle Salad) - Non-Veg/Veg
5. Saeng Chan Restaurant
   Address: In the heart of Ubon Ratchathani city
   Famous Food: Saikrok Issan (Issan Sausage) - Non-Veg

Please note that the exact addresses and the availability of certain dishes may change over time, and it's advisable to check locally for the most up-to-date information. When dining in rural areas like Pha Taem, restaurants tend to excel in traditional Issan cuisine, which is usually dominated by non-vegetarian ingredients, though vegetarian options are commonly available in many establishments.