Image by Gus Ruballo

Kanom mo Kaeng

Kanom mo Kaeng—what a tantalizing Thai dish! From its name alone, one can easily guess at the delectable combination of flavors that await. But this dynamite duo of noodles and curry is so much more than the sum of its parts.

Kanom mo Kaeng


To begin, let's start with the noodles. Fresh, chewy, and light, Kanom Mo are delightful thick rice noodles that offer a level of lusciousness not seen in other dishes. When accompanied by Kaeng, a flavorful Thai curry made with coconut milk, lemongrass, and spices, the Kanom Mo take on a new life. The combination is soothing yet dynamic, bewitching diners with a balance of lushness and spice.

The marriage of those two main ingredients makes Kanom Mo Kaeng an absolute pleasure to eat. Pleasure is not just found in the taste, however, as the colors of the dish come together like a painter’s palette. The creamy, almost-white coconut milk of the Kaeng contrasted against the pale noodles is a veritable feast for the eyes and spirit.

To further compliment the warmth of the meal, vegetables are added. Onions, carrots, mushrooms, or whatever the cook desires provide a freshness that lifts the entire dish to zenith. And of course no true Thai experience would be complete without the kick of spice. Chilies can be added to give one that burning sensation to remind them of the experience long after finishing the plate.

Kanom Mo Kaeng truly has something for everyone. Whether it's the profusion of colors, the texture of the noodles, or the spicy embrace of the curry, I guarantee that one bite will bring you delight.

The origin of Kanom mo Kaeng

Kanom Mo Kaeng is a delectable dish hailing from the northern region of Thailand. Offering an exquisite blend of sweet and savory flavors, this flavorful dish has been a mainstay at Thai meals for centuries.

Kanom Mo Kaeng's origin is believed to have been passed down from generations of cooks in the mountainous areas of Northern Thailand. Although there are no official records of its exact creation, many believe the dish was concocted from local ingredients that had been around for years, such as coconut milk, pork, and vegetables.

The recipe for the dish has remained largely unchanged and is still prepared today using traditional methods. The pork is slow-cooked in a flavorful mixture of coconut milk, Thai herbs, and vegetables. The vegetables used in the dish vary depending on the season, but often include mushrooms, squash, and coriander. Topping off Kanom Mo Kaeng is a lip-smacking combination of fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar, creating a mouthwateringly sweet and sour flavor profile.

For many Thai families, serving Kanom Mo Kaeng is a fond tradition shared over generations. Not only is it considered a delicious comfort food, but its chemistry of complementary flavors has also provided a perfect canvas for showcasing the culinary excellence of Thai cooks.

As the demand for the dish continues to grow, so too do the number of variations and interpretations of the classic recipe. Whether the addition of unique ingredients or tweaks to the original preparation process, new versions of Kanom Mo Kaeng have emerged throughout Thailand and become popular amongst tickle-tongues all around the world.

FAQs about Kanom mo Kaeng

What are Thai desserts?

1. Khao Niaow Ma Muang (Mango Sticky Rice)
2. Khanom Tuay (Coconut Pandan Pancakes)
3. Thapthim Krop (Deep-Fried Water Chestnut Cake)
4. Thong Yip (Golden Threads)
5. Kanom Bern (Coconut Custard Pudding)
6. Kluai Buat Chee (Banana in Coconut Milk Pudding)
7. Kanom Tuay (Coconut Jellies)
8. Khanom Bprik Cha Om (Sweet Omelette with Salted Egg)
9. Foi Thong (Thai Golden Threads)
10. Khanom Chan (Layered Coconut Pudding)


What is Thai Custard made of?

Thai Custard, sometimes called sangkhaya or sangkaya, is usually made with eggs, coconut cream or milk, sugar and pandan leaves. Some recipes also call for the addition of vanilla extract, cornstarch and/or coconut extract. The custard is typically flavored with salt and pandan leaves, which give it a distinct flavor and aroma.


Types of Kanom mo Kaeng

If you are a fan of Thai food, chances are you have come across the delightful dish known as Kanom Mo Kaeng. This is a type of curry that has been around for centuries and is believed to have originated in the Kingdom of Siam many years ago. While traditional Kanom Mo Kaeng would typically contain pork, it can also be prepared with fish, chicken, beef, or even shrimp. Each type of meat will provide a unique flavor to the dish and make it stand out among the array of other Thai favorites.

At its core, Kanom Mo Kaeng consists of a savory-sweet red or yellow-colored curry. But it’s the additions to the main ingredients that truly bring out the flavor and make this dish so popular. Red chili paste, garlic, shallots, galangal, and lemongrass all combine to create an exquisite fusion of aromas and tastes that can enhance the overall flavor of the curry. Onions, peppers, and mushrooms are also sometimes included as an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Kanom Mo Kaeng may also be served with steamed jasmine rice. This allows the fragrant flavors of the curry to be further enhanced. As you spoon the curry onto the rice, a mouthwatering aroma will begin to fill the room, leaving your taste buds yearning for more.

However, some fans of this dish take the flavors to the next level by garnishing the dish with various types of herbs and spices. Those who enjoy a bit of spice might opt for a sprinkle of chopped chili peppers on top, while those who like a milder flavor could opt for some finely chopped coriander leaves. Others may even choose to add some spring onions or kaffir lime leaves for extra depth of flavor.

No matter how you like to prepare your Kanom Mo Kaeng, one thing remains true: the dish has a wonderful combination of flavors that will satisfy any palette. For those who haven’t tried it yet, it’s a great way to enjoy a filling meal and explore the world of Thai cuisine.