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Khao Pad
Central
ข้าวผัด

Khao Pad

Thai fried rice with jasmine rice, prawns, egg and a wedge of lime — the ultimate comfort bowl.

Story behind the dish
Origin

A practical Chinese fried-rice adaptation using Thai jasmine rice and local condiments.

History

Evolved from leftover rice dishes into a beloved hawker staple found on every corner.

Culture

Thai kids grow up on khao pad; it's the safe, satisfying choice for any traveler.

Key ingredients
Jasmine ricePrawns or chickenEggGarlicSpring onionTomatoCucumberLimeFish sauce
Flavor profile
Sweet
2/5
Sour
2/5
Salty
4/5
Spicy
1/5
Umami
4/5
Where to try it
Street food
Jay Fai's neighbouring stall in Bangkok Old Town for wok-charred khao pad.
Local restaurant
Krua Apsorn, Bangkok — classic crab fried rice.
Premium dining
Le Du, Bangkok — khao pad with aged rice and river prawn head oil.
Recommended pairings
Drinks
  • Chang beer
  • Iced jasmine tea
Desserts
  • Mango sticky rice
Complementary dishes
  • Tom Yum Goong
  • Som tam
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