Introduction:
As a vegan traveler, venturing into a new country can be both exciting and challenging. Fortunately, Thailand, with its rich culinary heritage and vibrant food scene, offers a plethora of vegan-friendly options for you to savor. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the best places to find vegan food, discover traditional Thai vegan dishes, learn about non-vegan ingredients to watch out for, explore food delivery services catering to vegans, and highlight famous vegan YouTubers based in Thailand.
- Best Places for Vegan Food:
a. Bangkok: The capital city boasts an array of vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes. Explore popular areas like Ari, Thonglor, and Siam, which are known for their vibrant vegan scene.
b. Chiang Mai: A haven for plant-based enthusiasts, Chiang Mai offers a multitude of vegan and vegetarian eateries, with the Nimmanhaemin area and the Old City being particularly noteworthy.
c. Phuket: Alongside its breathtaking beaches, Phuket houses several vegan restaurants and health-conscious establishments, especially in areas like Rawai and Nai Harn.
- Thai Vegan Dishes:
a. Pad Thai: This famous stir-fried noodle dish can be easily veganized by requesting no egg and fish sauce, and adding tofu or extra vegetables.
b. Green Curry (Kaeng Khiao Wan): Traditionally made with fish sauce, green curry can be made vegan-friendly by asking for a vegetarian version without fish sauce or shrimp paste.
c. Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad): A refreshing and spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, lime juice, chili, and peanuts. Confirm that no fish sauce or shrimp paste is used in the dressing.
d. Tom Yum Soup: A popular and aromatic Thai soup, typically made with shrimp. Vegan versions can be found by substituting shrimp with tofu or mushrooms and ensuring no fish sauce is added.
e. Fruit. Thailand has some of the most delicious fruit in the world, it’s abundant, it’s cheap and it’s available everywhere. Read our guide
- Non-Vegan Ingredients to be Aware of:
a. Fish Sauce (Nam Pla): A common ingredient in Thai cuisine, fish sauce is made from fermented fish. Request dishes to be prepared without fish sauce or opt for soy sauce instead.
b. Shrimp Paste (Kapi): Often used as a flavor enhancer in Thai curries and sauces, shrimp paste should be avoided by vegans. Confirm its absence when ordering dishes.
c. Oyster Sauce: Found in stir-fries and other savory dishes, oyster sauce is derived from shellfish. Vegan-friendly alternatives such as mushroom sauce or soy sauce can be requested instead.
- Food Delivery Services for Vegans:
a. HappyFresh: A popular online grocery delivery service that offers a wide range of vegan products, including fresh produce, plant-based substitutes, and cruelty-free brands.
b. Foodpanda and GrabFood: These food delivery platforms have options to filter for vegan restaurants or search for vegan dishes from various eateries, providing convenient access to vegan meals.
- Famous Vegan YouTubers Based in Thailand:
a. Simon and Martina (Eat Your Kimchi): This popular YouTube duo documents their vegan food adventures in Thailand, showcasing local vegan eateries and introducing viewers to unique plant-based dishes.
b. Drew Binsky: A travel vlogger known for his exploration of vegan food around the world, Drew has featured vegan restaurants and street food in Thailand in several of his videos.
Conclusion:
Thailand, with its rich culinary traditions and vibrant food culture, has plenty to offer vegan travelers. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil shores of Phuket, the country is teeming with vegan-friendly restaurants, cafes, and markets. By exploring the best places for vegan food