Thai cuisine is famous for its intense flavours, but its spiciness can surprise even people who enjoy hot food. The good news: you do not have to give up Thai dishes if you prefer milder flavours. You simply need to know how to order. Here is a practical guide before your visit to the Thai Thai restaurant in Sopot.
Where does the heat in Thai dishes come from?
The main source of spiciness is fresh and dried chilli. In Thailand, small, very hot chillies are popular and are added to curry pastes, salads, sauces and soups. Heat, however, is only one element – Thai cuisine is built on a balance of flavours: sweet, sour, salty, spicy and bitter. A well-prepared dish does not “burn” for no reason – the chilli brings out the other flavours.
How to order a dish with the right level of heat?
- Say clearly what you expect – the staff will ask or advise you on how to adjust the dish. The terms “mild”, “medium” and “very hot” are all you need.
- Start carefully – if you are not familiar with the Thai heat scale, choose a milder version. It is easier to add heat than to take it away.
- Ask about condiments – in Thai cuisine, seasonings are often served so that you can season the dish yourself, e.g. chilli in fish sauce, chilli flakes or vinegar with chillies.
- Tell us about any allergies – Thai dishes often contain peanuts, fish sauce, shellfish or soy. Always let the staff know.
Thai phrases worth knowing
In Thai restaurants, it is appreciated when a guest knows at least a few words:
- phet – spicy,
- mai phet – not spicy,
- phet nit noi – a little spicy,
- phet mak – very spicy.
Which Thai dishes are usually milder?
The level of heat depends on the recipe and the kitchen, but in general the milder ones tend to be:
- wok-fried noodles, e.g. pad thai – heat is usually added at the table,
- massaman curry – aromatic, with notes of warm spices and nuts,
- yellow curry – creamy, made with coconut milk,
- coconut milk soups, e.g. tom kha,
- fried rice and stir-fried vegetable dishes.
Hotter dishes usually include green curry, som tam papaya salad, larb and tom yum soup. Before you order, ask the staff how the kitchen prepares a given dish.
Too hot? What helps
- Rice – its neutral taste soothes the burning sensation. This is exactly why rice accompanies most Thai dishes.
- Dairy or coconut products – fats and proteins help neutralise capsaicin, the substance responsible for the heat.
- A sweet or sour addition – a little sugar or lime balances the spiciness.
- Beware of cold water – it gives momentary relief, but it does not dissolve capsaicin, so the burning comes back.
Spiciness, children and sensitive stomachs
For children and people with sensitive stomachs, choose dishes that are naturally mild: fried rice, wok noodles or creamy coconut milk curry. When ordering, ask for a version without chilli. You can read more about meals adapted to different diets in our article on Thai cuisine for different needs, and about travelling with little ones in our guide Sopot with Children.
Authentic Thai cuisine in Sopot
At the Thai Thai restaurant in Bayjonn Hotel, the food is cooked by chefs from Thailand, and the ingredients are imported especially for the restaurant. It is a great place to discover Thai flavours in a version tailored to your tolerance for heat – simply tell the staff how spicy you like your food. For tips on what to order, see our article Thai Cuisine in Sopot.
Dinner at Thai Thai is easy to combine with a stay by the sea – see A Romantic Weekend in Sopot or A Weekend in Sopot.
Frequently asked questions
Is every Thai dish spicy?
No. Many dishes are mild, and in a restaurant the heat can usually be adjusted to the guest’s taste.
Can I order a dish with no chilli at all?
In many cases, yes – ask the staff which items can be prepared in a non-spicy version.
What to drink with spicy Thai food?
Coconut-based drinks and slightly sweet beverages work well, as they soften the heat. Cold water brings only momentary relief.
Book your stay and dinner at Thai Thai: +48 730 71 71 71, recepcja@bayjonnhotel.pl.
