Skip to content 
In Thai cuisine, rice isn’t just a side, it’s the soul of the meal. It’s what ties everything together, from spicy curries to sizzling stir-fries.
At Lime and Basil, we take this humble grain and turn it into flavorful, well-balanced dishes that celebrate both authenticity and creativity.
Each serving tells a story of comfort, culture, and balance. Whether you’re craving something savory, tropical, or bold, our Thai-inspired rice dishes are a must-try for anyone exploring authentic Thai cuisine.
If you’re new to Thai food, start with our Beginner’s Guide to Thai Food—it explains how Thai dishes achieve the perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and sour that makes each bite unforgettable.
Bagoong Rice
Bagoong Rice is one of Thailand’s most flavorful comfort foods. Jasmine rice is stir-fried with shrimp paste, creating a rich, savory base with a slightly smoky aroma.
It’s served with sweet pork, green mango, egg strips, and chili on the side; a medley of tastes and textures that deliver salty, sweet, tangy, and spicy all in one bite.
This dish perfectly captures the flavor balance Thai food is known for.
Catfish Flakes Fried Rice
For something heartier, try our Catfish Flakes Fried Rice, a creative take inspired by Yam Pla Duk Foo (crispy catfish salad). We’ve turned this classic street favorite into a comforting rice dish that’s full of texture and flavor.
Crispy catfish flakes add a smoky, savory depth that’s balanced with herbs and lime for freshness. It’s satisfying yet light, proof that Thai food can be both indulgent and well-balanced.
Curious how traditional Thai dishes like this became global icons? You’ll love How Thai Food Menu Staples Became Global Favorites.
Kao Pad Saparod (Pineapple Fried Rice)
Few dishes represent Thailand’s playful, tropical side better than Kao Pad Saparod, or Pineapple Fried Rice. Served inside a carved pineapple, this colorful dish features jasmine rice stir-fried with shrimp, cashews, raisins, and chunks of fresh pineapple.
The result is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors with a touch of curry powder for warmth. It’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
If you’re looking for more dishes that showcase Thai vibrancy, explore our 7 Must-Try Dishes from EVERY Thai Food Menu.
Kao Pad Gai (Chicken Fried Rice)
Simple, hearty, and comforting, Kao Pad Gai is Thai-style chicken fried rice at its best. Fragrant jasmine rice is tossed with chicken, egg, and vegetables in soy and fish sauce for a satisfying, homey flavor.
The secret lies in the “wok hei”—that slightly smoky aroma from high-heat cooking that gives every grain of rice depth and character. It’s a go-to meal that proves sometimes the simplest dishes are the most comforting.
Kao Pad Goong (Shrimp Fried Rice)
Fresh shrimp, egg, and rice come together beautifully in Kao Pad Goong, a classic fried rice that highlights the sweetness of seafood and the savoriness of Thai seasoning.
Each bite delivers balance, the juicy shrimp, fluffy rice, and bright squeeze of lime create a refreshing, well-rounded dish that’s both light and flavorful.
Kao Pad Nua (Beef Fried Rice)
If you prefer something richer, Kao Pad Nua delivers a big, bold flavor. Tender beef slices are stir-fried with jasmine rice, onion, garlic, and soy sauce, creating a hearty meal that’s full of umami.
The smoky flavor from the wok adds depth and makes this dish especially satisfying. It’s comfort food done the Thai way, simple ingredients elevated by balance and technique.
More Than Just Rice
Rice is the foundation of every meal in every Thai cuisine. From the savory punch of Bagoong Rice to the tropical brightness of Kao Pad Saparod, each dish at Lime and Basil celebrates the rich flavors of Thailand.
So the next time you’re searching for Thai food near me, remember that the best Thai meals often start with a bowl of rice, and end with a smile.
Visit Lime and Basil and try our rice menu!
