5 Recommended Dishes to Try When Visiting Koh Samui

When visiting Koh Samui, aside from the beautiful beaches and serene atmosphere, the local cuisine is something you shouldn’t miss. Here are five recommended dishes to try when you visit Koh Samui:

1. Gaeng Luang (Southern Yellow Curry)

Gaeng Luang, also known as Southern-style sour curry, is a well-known dish from southern Thailand. It has a bold, spicy, and tangy flavor, with fish and vegetables like bamboo shoots or papaya as the main ingredients. The curry’s thick and aromatic broth makes it popular among those who love spicy food.

2. Southern-style Kanom Jeen (Rice Noodles with Curry)

Kanom Jeen Namya is a favorite dish among the locals in Samui. The curry sauce is rich in flavor, made with coconut milk and southern-style curry paste, fragrant with herbs. It is typically served with fresh rice noodles and fresh vegetables like bean sprouts, cucumbers, and Thai basil, making for a refreshing and delightful meal.

3. Fresh Oysters

Oysters are a signature seafood dish of Koh Samui, especially fresh oysters served with condiments like crispy garlic, sliced shallots, chili paste, and a flavorful seafood dipping sauce. The fresh oysters have a sweet, creamy flavor and are a must-try for seafood lovers.

4. Turmeric Fried Fish

Turmeric fried fish is a popular local dish in southern Thailand. The fish is marinated with turmeric paste and then fried until crispy, giving it a distinctive aroma. The combination of the crispy texture and the earthy flavor of turmeric pairs perfectly with steaming hot rice.

5. Stir-fried Prawns with Sataw Beans and Shrimp Paste

Sataw (or stinky beans) is a local vegetable in southern Thailand with a unique aroma. In this dish, the beans are stir-fried with prawns and shrimp paste, a common southern ingredient. The salty, umami taste of the shrimp paste, combined with the spiciness and aroma of sataw, makes it a favorite dish for many once they’ve tried it.

Conclusion

The local cuisine of Koh Samui is not only delicious and full of bold flavors, but it also reflects the culture and lifestyle of the people in the area. Tasting the local dishes will enhance your travel experience, making it more fulfilling and memorable.