What Is Isan Food? Papaya Salad & Spicy Curry Explained
Updated: Oct 1
Isan food (also spelled Issan or Esan) is the vibrant, spicy and refreshing cuisine of Northeastern Thailand. Famous for its explosive mix of chilli, lime, fresh herbs, fermented fish and sticky rice, Isan cuisine is one of Thailand's most loved regional styles — and it's now easier than ever to enjoy it in the UK, right here at Kat's Oriental Cuisine in St Albans.
What Makes Isan Food Unique?
The Isan region in Northeast Thailand borders Laos and Cambodia, giving the food strong Lao influences while keeping its own distinctive style:
• A perfect balance of hot, sour, salty and umami
• Loads of fresh herbs and raw vegetables
• Mostly grilled or raw preparation, lighter and healthier
• Sticky rice instead of jasmine rice, eaten by hand, like our Sticky Rice
Naturally gluten-free and vegetable-heavy, Isan food is ideal if you're looking for healthy Thai food in St Albans.
Key Ingredients in Isan Cuisine
You'll taste these in almost every dish:
• Fresh herbs — mint, coriander, Thai basil, dill
• Lime juice for sharp acidity
• Fish sauce and fermented fish (pla ra)
• Toasted rice powder (khao khua)
• Plenty of fresh and dried Thai chillies
• Sticky rice (khao niao)
• A touch of palm sugar to round out the heat
Why Isan Food Is Taking St Albans by Storm
• Big, punchy flavours that brighten up any day
• Quick, healthy meals packed with vegetables and lean protein
• Lighter than creamy curries but just as satisfying
• Perfect for lunch, dinner or takeaway in St Albans
Enjoy Authentic Isan Food in St Albans
Great news for Hertfordshire Thai food fans: we're constantly adding new Isan dishes to our menu. Start with our fiery Papaya Salad, our bold Isan Curry, or our grilled Moo Ping pork skewers. Visit Kat's Oriental Cuisine today — your local home of Thai and Isan food. Browse the full menu to get started.
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