How to Eat Pad Thai Like a Local: Tips for Customizing Flavor with Thai Condiments
Pad Thai, a Thai-style stir-fried noodle dish, has been gaining more fans in Japan recently. This time, we visited the authentic Thai restaurant ‘Krung Siam’ to learn tips on how to make Pad Thai even more delicious using only the condiments available on the table.
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【Advised by】Krung Siam Roppongi
Table of Contents
Start by Tasting It As Is
Pad Thai is a Thai-style stir-fried noodle dish made with rice noodles called “sen lek.” True to Thai cuisine, it features a distinctive ethnic flavor, with a sweet and tangy taste from tamarind sauce, a fruit native to Southeast Asia. First, try it just as it is, without adding anything.
Squeeze Some Lemon
Pad Thai always comes with a slice of lemon.
Give it a squeeze to add a refreshing sour note to the rich flavor of the Pad Thai.
Add the Tabletop Condiments
On the table at Thai restaurants, you’ll find a condiment set called “Kruang Phrung.” Starting from the top right and going clockwise: vinegar, fish sauce, sugar, and chili powder—these four are the essentials. Let’s put them to use.
The order in which you add them is up to you. I started with vinegar.
Next, I added sugar. Some may be surprised by “Sugar on Pad Thai!?”—but Thai food and sugar are actually a great match. In Thai cuisine, which often blends sour and sweet flavors, adding sugar helps bring out the dish’s depth. Definitely give it a try!
After adding sugar, many people sprinkle chili powder to balance the flavor. When I tried it, rather than just sweet and spicy, it felt like the flavors were more focused and refined.
Add Some Peanuts
Chopped peanuts are always served on the plate—be sure to eat them together with your Pad Thai. The crunchy, nutty flavor adds a whole new dimension to the dish.
And you can even squeeze a bit more lemon on top for extra zest.
I was worried at first if I could finish the generous portion, but using the Kruang Phrung condiments kept the flavors exciting, and I thoroughly enjoyed it to the very last bite!
When I asked the staff how to eat Pad Thai, they said, “Everyone has their own way of using the condiments!” Regular customers know exactly how to personalize the flavors. Why not use this guide to discover your very own favorite way to enjoy Pad Thai?
An authentic Thai restaurant led by a chef who trained in Thailand. The dishes are prepared with seasonings and cooking methods tailored to suit Japanese tastes, making them approachable even for those new to Thai cuisine. Special thanks to Krung Siam Roppongi for their cooperation in this shoot.
*The information is based on the time of reporting or creation, and may differ from the current situation.
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