WHAT TO EAT

Isan fare is beloved all over Thailand, thanks to its bold combination of spicy, sour, savory, and pungent flavors. Here are a few must-try dishes to consider on your trip.

Som Tam

An authentic Isan-style green papaya salad should pack a punch; it’s best eaten with sticky rice that has been rolled into a ball and dipped into the fiery sauce.

Sai Krok Isan

Juicy sausages stuffed with fermented pork and glass noodles, accompanied by bird’s-eye chilies, fresh cabbage leaves, and slices of ginger to cut through the fattiness.

Larb

A popular version of this “salad,” uses stir-fried minced beef or pork with chili, shallots, coriander, and mint. Fish sauce and lime juice add even more flavor to the mix.

Kang Kua Hoykhom

Shelled freshwater snails and spinach in a rich, peach-colored coconut-milk curry.

Gungjom Songkreung

A tart mixture of fermented shrimp fried with pieces of pork chop and chili, eaten with an assortment of fresh vegetables.

Hor Mok

Mousse-like curry “cakes” steamed in small packets of banana leaf that usually feature fish or minced pork.

Kor Moo Yang

Tender pork neck that is barbecued, sliced, and served with nam jim

jaew, a spicy dipping sauce.