Thailand is a paradise for vegetarian food lovers. From rich curries to flavorful noodle dishes, you’ll find plenty of delicious meat-free options everywhere. Here are the best vegetarian Thai dishes you must try during your trip.
1. Pad Thai Jay (Vegetarian Pad Thai)
A classic Thai noodle dish stir-fried with tofu, egg (optional), bean sprouts, and tamarind sauce. Light, sweet, tangy, and perfect for any time of the day.
2. Som Tum Jay (Vegetarian Papaya Salad)
A fresh, crunchy salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, lime, chili, and peanuts — without fish sauce. It’s spicy, sour, and super refreshing.
3. Green Curry with Vegetables (Kaeng Keow Wan Jay)
A creamy coconut curry cooked with Thai eggplant, bamboo shoots, basil, and tofu. Rich, aromatic, and full of Thai herbs.
4. Massaman Curry Vegetarian
A mild, slightly sweet curry with potatoes, onions, peanuts, and tofu. Perfect for travelers who like rich and comforting dishes.
5. Pad See Ew Jay
Stir-fried wide rice noodles with tofu, soy sauce, and fresh vegetables. Soft, smoky, and very filling.
6. Tom Yum Jay (Spicy Herb Soup)
A vegetarian version of Thailand’s famous spicy and sour soup. Made with mushrooms, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili.
7. Khao Pad Jay (Vegetarian Fried Rice)
Simple and delicious fried rice with mixed vegetables, tofu, and soy sauce. A great option when you need something quick and tasty.
8. Thai Coconut Soup (Tom Kha Jay)
Creamy, light, and fragrant. Made with coconut milk, mushrooms, lemongrass, galangal, and lime — a must-try for soup lovers.
9. Tofu Satay
Grilled tofu skewers served with warm peanut sauce. Sweet, nutty, and perfect as a snack or appetizer.
10. Mango Sticky Rice
Thailand’s iconic dessert! Sweet mango, coconut cream, and sticky rice — 100% vegetarian and always delicious.
Tips for Vegetarian Travelers in Thailand
- Say: “Jay” (เจ) — means strict vegetarian (no meat, no fish sauce).
- Say: “Mangsawirat” (มังสวิรัติ) — vegetarian (may include egg).
- Most restaurants can make dishes vegetarian if you ask.
- Markets and street food often have tofu options.

