Raan Khao Gaeng (ร้านข้าวแกง)
Lunch Time Favorites for Thai Street Food
Raan Khao Gaeng - ร้านข้าวแกง , translated to “Curry Rice Shop”, in Thailand brings a more substantial and relaxed dimension to the Thai street food experience. Typically set up along bustling streets, in markets or near office hubs, these stalls are perfect for enjoying a hearty lunch that’s quick, affordable and packed with flavor. With makeshift seating and welcoming vendors, food stalls provide the ideal balance of convenience and authenticity for a midday meal.
Raan Khao Gaeng are beloved establishments where diners can enjoy a variety of flavorful curries and stir-fried dishes served over rice called “Khao Rad Gaeng”. It offers the perfect lunchtime escape, blending the convenience of street food with the comfort of sit-down dining.
“ Khao Rad Gaeng ”
Khao Rad Gaeng - ข้าวราดแกง literally means "rice topped with curry" and the concept is simple yet genius. At these eateries, diners select from an array of pre-cooked dishes, often displayed in large trays or pots, to be served over a plate of steaming rice. The selection typically includes a mix of curries, stir-fries, soups and sometimes even fried dishes.
Popular Lunchtime Dishes at Raan Khao Gaeng
- Pad Kra Pao - ผัดกะเพรา (Stir-Fried Basil) : A spicy stir-fry made with minced pork, chicken or seafood, cooked with garlic, chili and Thai basil, often topped with a fried egg.
- Kaeng Khiao Wan - แกงเขียวหวาน (Green Curry) : Creamy and spicy, made with green chilies, coconut milk, and your choice of meat or vegetables.
- Kaeng Massaman - แกงมัสมั่น (Massaman Curry) : A rich, mildly spiced curry with potatoes, peanuts, and tender chunks of meat.
- Kaeng Som - แกงส้ม : A sour and spicy tamarind-based soup with vegetables and fish.
- Nam Prik Pla Too - น้ำพริกปลาทู (Fried Mackerel and Chili Paste) : A simple yet flavorful pairing.
- Pad Kana Moo Krob - ผัดคะน้าหมูกรอบ (Stir-Fried Chinese Broccoli with Crispy Pork) : Crunchy greens and crispy pork belly tossed in a savory sauce.
- Khai Palo - ไข่พะโล้ (Five-Spice Egg and Pork Stew) : A savory-sweet stew with hard-boiled eggs and tender pork belly, flavored with Chinese five-spice powder.
- Pad Woon Sen - ผัดวุ้นเส้น (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles) : A light and savory stir-fry of glass noodles with vegetables and eggs.
