If you’ve already had your share of Pad Thai and mango sticky rice, here’s a dish that will surprise you. Khao Yum (ข้าวยำ) is a Southern Thai rice salad that looks like art and tastes like summer in a bowl.
Fresh, tangy, and full of color, it’s a hidden gem that shows a different side of Thai food — lighter, healthier, and packed with flavor.
What Is Khao Yum
Khao Yum literally means “mixed rice.” It’s a Southern Thai dish made with rice, herbs, and a special dressing that brings everything together.
The highlight is the rice itself — often dyed blue with butterfly pea flowers. Then come the fresh toppings: chopped herbs, vegetables, toasted coconut, dried shrimp, and a splash of sweet-salty dressing called nam budu.
It’s bright, refreshing, and full of textures — crunchy, zesty, and slightly sweet all at once.
What’s Inside
Every version of Khao Yum is a little different, but you’ll usually find:
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Blue butterfly pea rice
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Shredded lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves
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Green mango or pomelo
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Toasted coconut flakes
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Dried shrimp or bits of grilled fish
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Long beans, cucumber, and bean sprouts
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Fresh herbs like mint and coriander
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A dressing made with fermented fish sauce, lime, and palm sugar
When you mix it all up, the rice turns colorful and the flavors come alive.
What It Tastes Like
Khao Yum isn’t spicy unless you ask for it. It’s light, citrusy, and slightly sweet with a savory kick from the fish sauce. The herbs add freshness while the coconut gives it a soft crunch.
Locals call it “a salad that wakes you up” — and they’re right. It’s the kind of meal that feels good to eat, especially on a hot day.
Where to Eat Khao Yum in Bangkok
You can find great Khao Yum in several Bangkok restaurants that specialize in Southern Thai food:
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Baan Ice (Thonglor) – Authentic Southern Thai comfort food.
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Khua Kling Pak Sod – A must-try for bold Southern flavors.
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Krua Apsorn – Classic Thai spot with a mild, balanced version.
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Savoey Thai Restaurant – Great for travellers who like beautiful presentation with easy flavors.
Tip: Markets and street stalls often sell Khao Yum in the morning — those versions are usually the most authentic.
Where It Comes From
Khao Yum originated in Southern Thailand, especially around Songkhla and Pattani. The dish shows how Thai and Malay food cultures blend — you can taste it in the use of herbs, rice, and fermented sauce.
It’s been part of Southern home cooking for generations and is now showing up on modern Thai menus across Bangkok.
How to Eat It
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Add the dressing little by little — it’s strong.
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Mix everything well until the rice changes color.
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Add chili or lime if you like extra spice or tang.
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Eat with a spoon and fork, Thai-style.
Why You Should Try It
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It’s light, healthy, and full of flavor.
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It’s great for photos — seriously, look at that blue rice.
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It’s a real taste of Southern Thailand, not just the tourist side.
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It’s easy to enjoy even if you don’t like spicy food.
Khao Yum is one of those dishes that make you fall in love with Thai food all over again. It’s colorful, flavorful, and unlike anything else you’ll find on your trip.
If you want to go beyond the basics, order Khao Yum the next time you spot it on a menu — it’s Southern Thailand in one perfect, beautiful bowl.