Indian Girl Explores Traditional Morning Market in Chiang Mai | Thai Street Food Adventure

Join me, an Indian girl exploring Chiang Mai, Thailand, as I visit a traditional morning market with my Russian friend! We met at a hostel here in Chiang Mai and decided to start our day early by diving into the heart of Thai culture at one of the bustling morning markets. The market has everything from street food classics like papaya salad and pickled pork to unique treats like violet and brown rice.

The market is more than just a place to buy food; it’s an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Thai locals. People here shop for fresh ingredients, enjoy breakfast, and catch up with friends and family. In this video, I’ll share our experiences with local flavours, meet some friendly vendors, and offer tips for anyone interested in exploring Thai morning markets.

Chiang Mai’s morning markets are filled with vendors selling everything from spices and fresh produce to snacks and handmade items. Many local residents visit these markets daily to shop for fresh ingredients or grab a quick breakfast. The morning market is the place to experience authentic Thai food like a local, so if you’re visiting Chiang Mai, this is a must-do activity.

As we strolled through the aisles, we were excited to try a variety of Thai street foods, including some famous dishes and some lesser-known treats. Here’s what we found and tasted:

1. Papaya Salad (Som Tum)
Our first stop was a vendor selling Som Tum, the beloved Thai papaya salad. Watching the vendor prepare this dish was a delight. With shredded green papaya, juicy lime, and fiery chilli, Som Tum is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours. As the vendor mashed the ingredients in a mortar and pestle, I could smell the freshness and tanginess of lime juice and fish sauce. This papaya salad is a must-try, and it’s no wonder that it’s popular across Thailand.

2. Dried Mango
Next, we tried some dried mango—a sweet, chewy snack that’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Dried mango is made from local mangoes, which are carefully sliced and sun-dried to preserve their sweetness. In the hot climate of Thailand, dried fruits are common, and mangoes are particularly popular. This snack was a delicious treat, and it’s easy to pack for later, making it a perfect option for travellers.

3. Violet and Brown Rice
One of the most eye-catching items we found was violet and brown rice. The violet rice, which gets its vibrant colour from butterfly pea flower, is known for its slight sweetness and unique aroma. The brown rice, on the other hand, is earthy and nutty in flavour. Together, these rice varieties represent the diversity of Thai cuisine. Eating them was a delightful experience, and they paired well with some of the savoury dishes we found in the market.

4. Chiang Mai Sausage (Sai Ua)
One of the most distinctive foods of northern Thailand is Sai Ua, the Chiang Mai sausage. This dish is packed with herbs, spices, and a hint of chilli, which give it a signature northern flavour. The sausage is grilled and sliced into pieces, making it easy to eat on the go. I loved the aroma of lemongrass, kaffir lime, and ginger that came through in every bite. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience Chiang Mai’s unique food offerings.

5. Meat Dumplings
Next up, we tried some traditional meat dumplings. These dumplings were filled with a seasoned meat mixture that was tender and juicy. They’re a popular snack at morning markets and are often enjoyed with a side of dipping sauce. The filling had a nice balance of flavours, and the dough was light and soft. These dumplings make for a great breakfast option or a quick snack as you wander through the market.

6. Hot Porridge (Jok)
We couldn’t resist trying jok, a traditional Thai rice porridge often eaten for breakfast. This warm bowl of comfort is made from rice cooked until it’s soft and creamy, and it’s usually served with minced pork, green onions, and ginger. Some variations include an egg on top, which adds richness to the dish. Eating a bowl of jok in the morning is a great way to start the day, and it’s easy to see why this dish is so popular among locals.

7. Pickled and Mixed Pork
One of the more unique items we found was pickled and mixed pork. This delicacy has a tangy flavor due to the pickling process, which involves mixing pork with spices and letting it ferment slightly. It’s a dish that might be unfamiliar to some, but it’s worth trying for an authentic taste of Thai flavors. Pickled pork is often used in various Thai recipes or eaten as a side with rice.

8. Thai Rice Varieties
Rice is a staple in Thailand, and we were excited to see a variety of rice types on display. From jasmine rice to sticky rice, each type has a specific use in Thai cooking. Jasmine rice is aromatic and fluffy, ideal for main dishes, while sticky rice is a favourite in northern Thailand and pairs well with grilled meats or papaya salad.

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