People | Food | Culture

Khao Soi

ByAva
Published OnMay 25, 2026

Today, we are making Khao Soi, a dish from Northern Thailand known for its creamy coconut milk flavor, vibrant spices, and tender meat. Khao Soi has a huge fan base among locals and foreigners.

The flavor of this dish comes together with a medley of warm spices, including turmeric, cardamom, and cumin. The savory paste is made with garlic, shallots, ginger, and red chilies. Khao Soi paste is rarely sold in supermarkets; locals make it at home. If you have all the ingredients, simply add them to a blender and pulse. Though making it requires all the ingredients to achieve the authentic taste of Khao Soi. For convenience, use yellow curry paste along with cardamom powder, a chicken stock cube, and turmeric.

The History of Khao Soi

When the Burmese migrated to Thailand, they took with them the culinary practices of the Shan people. Traditionally, Khao Soi was prepared with boiled egg noodles that were cooked in a rich broth; nowadays, the noodles are often fried and placed on top of the Khao Soi.

Ingredients

Noodles, Thai Yellow Curry Paste, Coconut milk, Chicken, Lime juice, Fish Sauce, Chicken Stock Cube.

Fresh or dried egg noodles are preferred for their texture and ability to absorb the flavors of Khao Soi; rice noodles can also be used for this dish. Thai Yellow Curry paste is a fantastic substitute that includes most of the essential components of Khao Soi sauce. The paste can be bought in Asian supermarkets or online.

Coconut milk balances the rich flavors of the spices and adds a smooth texture to the soup. Chicken is preferred as the protein source; thighs and drumsticks will add a deeper flavor to this dish. However, you can use chicken breast for a leaner option. In some parts of Thailand, they use beef or tofu for a vegetarian option. The meat is simmered until it is tender. Khao Soi is often served with a variety of toppings such as lime juice, sliced Thai red chilies, parsley, or coriander. Pickled mustard greens will add a tangy note to this dish.

Instructions

Prepare the noodles first by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the fresh egg noodles for 2 to 4 minutes, and the dried egg noodles for 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and rinse the egg noodles in a colander under cold water. Set aside. Wash and prepare the meat; thereafter, place the chicken in the fridge until it is ready for use.

Chop the onions and garlic. Add cooking oil to a pan on medium-low heat. Sauté the onions for five to six minutes until caramelized. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 to 4 minutes, until golden. Add the yellow curry paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add the chicken stock cube, cardamom powder, and turmeric powder. Pour in the coconut milk and add the chopped Chicken to the pot. Add a drop of fish sauce. Simmer the soup for 20 minutes. You can also add Kefir lime leaves and lemongrass. (Optional)

Heat a small amount of oil in a pan, then fry the egg noodles until golden and crispy. Chop up the parsley, add the khao soi soup to a bowl, sprinkle with parsley, add a few slices of chili, and top with the fried noodles. The dish is ready to be served and enjoyed.

Khao Soi is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that reflects the history and culture of Northern Thailand. Whether it is enjoyed on the streets of Chiang Mai or in a bowl made at home, Khao Soi promises a burst of flavor and comforting warmth. While the classic recipe is celebrated in many parts of Thailand and the World, you can use different types of protein, such as Duck or Turkey, and adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Extra chilies can be thrown in for extra heat.

What to Serve with Khao Soi?

In Thailand, most people enjoy Khao Soi with either fried or boiled egg noodles. On rare occasions, it can be enjoyed with White jasmine rice, especially when egg noodles are unavailable. For Khao Soi to shine, drizzle a little lime juice over the top. Chopped red onions add crunch, and parsley or coriander will provide the dish with a refreshing taste. Pickle Mustard leaves add a tangy and vinegary taste as a side-dish, it also helps to cut through the richness of the coconut gravy sauce.

How to Store Khao Soi?

Once cool, store the soup in an airtight glass container for three to four days. Store the fried egg noodles in a separate container. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost and reheat on the stove.