Isaan, the northeastern region of Thailand, offers a unique and flavorful culinary experience that is different from the more widely known dishes of Bangkok or southern Thailand. Known for its bold, spicy flavors, Isaan food features a mix of sour, salty, and spicy elements that truly reflect the culture of this vibrant region. If you’re looking to dive into authentic Isaan cuisine, here are some of the top dishes you should definitely try.

1. Grilled Pork Neck (Kor Moo Yang)

One of the standout dishes in Isaan cuisine is Kor Moo Yang, or grilled pork neck. The pork is marinated in a sweet and sticky sauce before being grilled over hot coals, resulting in a smoky, tender piece of meat. The dish is often served with a side of Nam Jim Jaew, a spicy dipping sauce that adds the perfect tangy and savory kick. For an even more delicious experience, try Yum Kor Moo Yang, where the grilled pork is mixed with a spicy, sweet, and sour salad, making it a perfect combination of Thai flavors.

2. Minced Pork Salad (Laab Moo)

Laab Moo, or minced pork salad, is a beloved dish in Isaan and has its roots in Laos. The pork is finely minced and mixed with fresh herbs like mint and coriander, and flavored with fish sauce, lime juice, and chili. This dish can sometimes include raw meat, but for safety, it’s best to stick with the cooked version. The balance of heat, sourness, and freshness makes Laab Moo a refreshing yet fiery dish.

3. Grilled Pork Salad (Nam Tok Moo)

While similar to Laab Moo, Nam Tok Moo (which translates to “Waterfall Pork”) is made with grilled pork rather than minced meat. The grilled pork is combined with fresh herbs, toasted rice powder, and a tangy dressing made of lime, fish sauce, and chili. The name “Nam Tok” refers to the sound of the meat juices dripping as it’s grilled, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is intriguing.

4. Isaan Sausages (Sai Krok Isaan)

Sai Krok Isaan is one of the most popular street foods in Isaan. These sausages are made from fermented pork and sticky rice, giving them a distinctive sour flavor. Often served with cabbage, ginger, and fresh chilies, these sausages are eaten with a side of Nam Jim Jaew (spicy dipping sauce) for an added punch. You’ll typically find vendors grilling these sausages along the streets of Isaan, and they are perfect for a quick, flavorful snack.

5. Thai Hot Pot (Jim Jum)

Jim Jum, the Isaan version of Thai hot pot, is a communal meal where diners cook their own ingredients in a hot, flavorful broth. The broth is made with lemongrass, garlic, shallots, chili, and sweet basil, giving it a distinctly Thai taste. You can add a variety of ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and noodles, and then dip everything into Nam Jim (spicy chili sauce) for an extra kick. It’s a fun and interactive meal, often enjoyed with friends and family.

6. Grilled Chicken (Kai Yang)

Kai Yang, or grilled chicken, is a simple yet satisfying dish found all over Isaan. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of garlic, lemongrass, and turmeric before being grilled over an open flame. It’s often served with a side of spicy dipping sauce and can be found at street food stalls throughout the region. The smoky, crispy skin and tender meat make it a crowd favorite, especially when paired with sticky rice.

7. Hot and Sour Soup (Tom Saap)

Tom Saap is Isaan’s answer to the famous Tom Yum soup. This spicy and sour broth is made with pork ribs, giving it a rich, savory depth. The soup is flavored with lime, fish sauce, chili, and herbs, making it the perfect comfort food when you’re craving something spicy and tangy. Often eaten for breakfast in Isaan, Tom Saap is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

8. Papaya Salad (Som Tam Korat)

While Som Tam (papaya salad) is popular across Thailand, the Isaan variation, Som Tam Korat, is unique. Instead of the usual fish sauce, this version uses Pla Ra, a fermented fish sauce, which gives the dish a more intense, savory flavor. The combination of unripe papaya, lime, fish sauce, peanuts, and chilies creates a bold and spicy salad that’s sure to awaken your taste buds.

9. Grilled Fish (Pla Pao)

Grilled fish is a common dish in Isaan, and Pla Pao (grilled fish) is a local favorite. Freshwater fish like tilapia, catfish, or snakehead are stuffed with aromatic herbs like pandanus leaves and lemongrass, then coated in salt and grilled over charcoal. The fish is served with a spicy lime and fish sauce dip that complements the tender, smoky fish perfectly.

10. Pork Jerky (Moo Dad Diew)

Moo Dad Diew, or Thai pork jerky, is a chewy, savory snack that’s perfect for nibbling. The pork is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, pepper, and palm sugar, then left to dry in the sun. After being grilled, the jerky develops a delicious smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with a spicy dipping sauce.

Additional Essentials to Try

• Veg and Chilli Dip (Nam Prik Pak): A traditional dish made with boiled vegetables served with a spicy chili dip. It’s a simple but flavorful meal that’s common in Isaan villages.
• Pork Skillet Barbecue (Moo Krata): A fun, communal dish where marinated meats are grilled on a hot skillet, while vegetables and other ingredients cook in a side broth.
• Rice Whisky (Lao Khao): A potent rice spirit that is often consumed in Isaan. It plays a significant role in local celebrations and is an important part of the region’s drinking culture.
• Sweet Sticky Rice (Khao Niao Wan): Sticky rice mixed with coconut milk, palm sugar, and sometimes fruit, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed or grilled for a sweet treat.
• Steamed Pork (Moo Yor): A steamed pork sausage, often served as part of a spicy salad with fish sauce, lime, and chili.
• Leaf Wraps (Miang Kham): A delightful bite-sized snack where various ingredients like peanuts, coconut, ginger, and lime are wrapped in a cha plu leaf for a burst of Thai flavors.
• Steamed Curry Cakes (Hor Mok): A mousse-like curry cake made from fish or pork, steamed in banana leaves, and topped with coconut cream and fresh herbs.

Isaan cuisine offers an incredibly diverse array of flavors, from spicy and sour to sweet and savory. Whether you’re enjoying a grilled pork dish by the roadside or digging into a hot pot with friends, there’s no shortage of delicious options to explore in this vibrant region of Thailand.