Visiting Thailand can be incredibly hot and humid, so making sure to stay hydrated is of utmost importance. Fortunately, the country offers some of the world’s most delightful beverages, many of which you may never have tasted before. Here is our list of must-try Thai drinks:
Grass Jelly
No matter where your travels take you in Thailand, you’ll quickly discover that grass jelly is a favorite among the locals. This gelatinous cube is composed of plant proteins that boast a naturally sweet flavor. You can find fruit and chocolate varieties, but Thais tend to enjoy the natural taste and consistency of the jelly.
Krating Daeng
Thailand has a booming energy drink market, with Krating Daeng–which translates to ‘red bull’–being one of the most popular. This beverage is said to be the original source of inspiration for the globally-recognized energy drink. You can easily find the classic black and green cans of Thai energy drinks in convenience stores, cafes, and even as a side to some crunchy fried street snacks.
Mekhong
Mekhong, or Thai whiskey, is a sweet, rum-like spirit popular in Thailand. It’s made from 95 percent molasses and comes in wide varieties. Mekhong can be found in convenience stores or even market stalls. A great way to beat the heat, mekhong can be mixed with fruit juice and plenty of ice for an inexpensive and tasty alcoholic beverage.
Nom Yen
Nom yen is an iced milk drink that is popular in Thailand. It is sweet, has a fruity taste, and is a bright pink color. It is especially popular among children and can be found in plastic bags alongside juices, sodas, and energy drinks from street vendors in many cities in Thailand.
Sang Som
Thailand may not be famous for booze but sang som is an exception. It has a sweet, woody flavor and a strong kick. When enjoyed with fruit juices or sodas, it is the perfect refresher to beat the heat.
Sang som is a type of Thai spirit that is made by distilling alcohol in oak barrels and then blending it with herbs and spices to give it a unique and complex flavor. It can be found in bars, convenience stores, and markets in Thailand.
Singha
Singha is a popular Thai beer that can be found all over the world. It is renowned for its association with international sports teams such as Manchester United and the Red Bull F1 Racing Team. What makes Singha stand out is its high alcohol percentage–6 percent ABV, compared to the usual 3-4 percent of most lagers. It has a strong malt flavor, making it an ideal accompaniment to a spicy Thai curry.
Sugarcane Juice
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, you should try sugarcane juice! This delicious drink is a popular choice among both tourists and locals in Thailand. It’s made by crushing sugarcane stalks in a powerful machine, which produces a creamy, sweet juice. The sugarcane juice is delightful, so take it slow and enjoy it sip by sip to avoid a sugar rush!
Closing Thoughts
Thai beverages are an essential part of the culture and cuisine of Thailand. They provide a refreshing and unique taste to the local cuisine and are enjoyed by people of all ages.
In addition to being a popular choice for refreshments, Thai beverages also provide a variety of health benefits. Many of these drinks are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a great choice for staying healthy. All in all, Thai beverages are a great way to experience the culture and cuisine of Thailand while staying healthy and refreshed.
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