
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