10 Delicious Vegetarian Options in Thailand
Are you traveling to Thailand but following a vegetarian diet? No problem at all! Thailand offers a wide and delicious variety of food choices for vegetarians, thanks to the country’s rich Buddhist influence and growing vegan community. Almost all local dishes can be easily modified with tofu or vegetables to replace meat. I never run out of things to try here, so let me share my top 10 favorite vegetarian dishes in Thailand!
1. Mango Smoothie
Starting off simple: a mango smoothie from a café, street vendor, or restaurant. The fruit here—especially the mangos—is so incredibly sweet and fresh. They make some of the best smoothies I’ve ever had, often for less than 60 baht. The flavor is absolutely insane and so refreshing on a hot day. You can also opt for other popular fruits like coconut, watermelon, and banana. They’re all amazing and the perfect midday cool-off.
2. Mango Sticky Rice
Another favorite featuring mango is mango sticky rice. Again, this dish is fantastic anywhere—restaurants or street vendors—but it’s cheaper and often better from the street! This dessert combines sweet sticky rice, fresh mango, and condensed milk, creating a unique yet delicious pairing. With such a sweet mango, you truly can’t go wrong. Enjoy it as a snack or a post-dinner treat. Honestly, it’s good any time of day!
3. Yellow Curry with Vegetables or Tofu
Yellow curry, known for its bright yellow hue thanks to turmeric, is a comforting meal for vegetarians. This dish can be ordered with vegetables or tofu and is often paired with rice. Yellow curry is mild and slightly sweet, featuring turmeric, cumin, chili, coconut milk, garlic, and an assortment of vegetables. The curry pairs so well with tofu or veggies, creating a flavorful and hearty dish. You can find yellow curry almost anywhere, but it’s especially enjoyable when served piping hot at a cozy indoor spot.
4. Green Curry with Vegetables or Tofu
Another incredible curry option for vegetarians is green curry. This dish has a sweet yet slightly spicy flavor, made with Thai basil, chilies, garlic, lemongrass, coconut milk, eggplant, and more. Like yellow curry, green curry is served with rice and is just as delightful with tofu or a medley of vegetables. The rich flavors and vibrant green color make it a Thai favorite. Whether you enjoy it at a street stall or in a restaurant, you can always customize the spice level to your preference.