Foreigner FriendlyYes
✗VegetarianAdventurous
Spice Level
Price Range30-50 THB
About This Dish
A lesser-known Isan salad made from boiled corn kernels pounded with chili, lime, fish sauce, and roasted peanuts. A delightful alternative to som tam with a sweeter, more comforting base.
Flavor Profile
The balance of tastes in this dish
Sweet1/5
Sour4/5
Salty2/5
Spicy3/5
Umami2/5
History & Origin
A lesser-known Isan salad that showcases the region's tradition of pounding fresh ingredients in a mortar. The corn base makes it more approachable for foreigners while maintaining authentic northeastern flavors.
Best Time to Eat
Perfect Pairings
Sticky riceGrilled pork skewers
Insider Tips
- 1A great beginner-friendly Isan dish — milder and sweeter than som tam
- 2Best found at roadside stalls along Isan highways
How to Order
Point and say this to order like a local
Pronunciation:tam mak hok
ตำหมากฮอก
Say this: Tam Mak Ho (Corn Salad)
Cuisine Region: Isan (Northeastern)
Price Range: 30-50 THB
Best Time to Eat: Anytime snack
Where to Try It
The best city to experience this dish
Nong Khai
The best city to experience this dish
More from Isan (Northeastern)
Other dishes from the same region
Similar Dishes
You might also enjoy these
Ready to Eat?
Explore more of Thailand's incredible cuisine