Fruits of Thailand- all you need to know

Thailand is known for its diverse range of fruits, thanks to its tropical climate. Here’s a list of most fruits commonly grown in Thailand (we tried a lot of them and most of them are amazing!):

1. Mango (Mamuang)
2. Durian (Tu-rian)
3. Papaya (Malako)
4. Pineapple (Saparot)
5. Banana (Kluay)
6. Mangosteen (Mangkud)
7. Lychee (Linji)
8. Longan (Lam-yai)
9. Rambutan (Ngo)
10. Dragon fruit (Gao Mung Gorn)
11. Guava (Falang)
12. Pomelo (Som O)
13. Coconut (Maprao)
14. Jackfruit (Kanoon)
15. Passion fruit (Soury Bhin)
16. Star fruit (Ma Fark)
17. Rose apple (Chom-poo)
18. Watermelon (Tang Mo)
19. Cantaloupe (Fak Thong)
20. Tamarind (Ma Kham)
21. Sapodilla (La-mut)
22. Custard apple (Noi Na)
23. Salak (Sala)
24. Breadfruit (Sak Kluay)
25. Soursop (Noi Na)
26. Wax apple (Chom-poo)
27. Thai cherries (Phu Lae)
28. Thai guava (Farang)
29. Langsat (Long-kong)
30. Buddha’s hand fruit (Phak Makhwaen)

This list is not exhaustive, but it covers many of the popular fruits grown in Thailand.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical fruit seasons in Thailand:

1. Mango (Mamuang): March to July
2. Durian (Tu-rian): April to June
3. Papaya (Malako): Year-round, with peak season from April to July
4. Pineapple (Saparot): Year-round, with peak season from March to July
5. Banana (Kluay): Year-round
6. Mangosteen (Mangkud): May to September
7. Lychee (Linji): April to June
8. Longan (Lam-yai): June to September
9. Rambutan (Ngo): May to August
10. Dragon fruit (Gao Mung Gorn): Year-round
11. Guava (Falang): Year-round
12. Pomelo (Som O): August to November
13. Coconut (Maprao): Year-round
14. Jackfruit (Kanoon): March to June
15. Passion fruit (Soury Bhin): Year-round
16. Star fruit (Ma Fark): Year-round
17. Rose apple (Chom-poo): Year-round
18. Watermelon (Tang Mo): Year-round, with peak season from March to May
19. Cantaloupe (Fak Thong): Year-round, with peak season from March to May
20. Tamarind (Ma Kham): Year-round
21. Sapodilla (La-mut): May to September
22. Custard apple (Noi Na): July to September
23. Salak (Sala): Year-round
24. Breadfruit (Sak Kluay): Year-round
25. Soursop (Noi Na): Year-round
26. Wax apple (Chom-poo): Year-round
27. Thai cherries (Phu Lae): April to June
28. Thai guava (Farang): Year-round
29. Langsat (Long-kong): June to September
30. Buddha’s hand fruit (Phak Makhwaen): Year-round, with peak season from June to August

These seasons can vary slightly depending on the specific region within Thailand and weather conditions.

Most of the local markets have the fruits that are in season. We also saw a lot of imported fruits and we opted not to try them as they looked that they could sit on the shelf for months.

The popularity of fruits in Thailand can vary based on factors such as season, region, and cultural preferences. However, some fruits are generally considered among the most popular due to their widespread availability, versatility, and cultural significance. Here are some of the most popular fruits in Thailand:

1. Mango (Mamuang): Known for its sweet flavor and juicy texture, mangoes are widely enjoyed both ripe and unripe in various dishes, desserts, and snacks.
2. Durian (Tu-rian): Despite its strong odor, durian is beloved by many Thais for its creamy texture and distinctive taste, often referred to as the “king of fruits.”
3. Papaya (Malako): Papayas are commonly eaten ripe as a fruit or unripe as a vegetable in salads, soups, and curries, known for their sweet flavor and health benefits.
4. Pineapple (Saparot): Sweet and tangy pineapple is a favorite fruit in Thailand, enjoyed fresh, in smoothies, or as a topping for various dishes.
5. Banana (Kluay): Bananas are a staple fruit in Thailand, enjoyed fresh, fried, or grilled, and used in desserts, snacks, and savory dishes.
6. Mangosteen (Mangkud): Mangosteen is prized for its sweet and tangy flavor, often called the “queen of fruits,” and enjoyed fresh as a refreshing snack.
7. Longan (Lam-yai): Longan fruits have a sweet and floral flavor, commonly eaten fresh or used in desserts, drinks, and herbal teas.
8. Rambutan (Ngo): Similar to lychee, rambutan is known for its sweet and juicy flesh, enjoyed fresh as a snack or in desserts.
9. Dragon fruit (Gao Mung Gorn): Dragon fruit, with its vibrant pink or white flesh and mild flavor, is popular in Thailand for its refreshing taste and visual appeal.
10. Watermelon (Tang Mo): Watermelon is a favorite fruit in Thailand, especially during hot weather, enjoyed fresh as a hydrating and refreshing snack.

These fruits are widely available across Thailand and are often incorporated into various traditional dishes, desserts, and street food offerings.

Our TOP 5 Fruits in Thailand:

1. Mangosteen
2. Longan
3. Mango
4. Rambutan
5. Passionfruit

Except for the mango- the rest we tried for the first time and they were all OUTSTANDING.

Here are the most INTERESTING tasting fruit that we tried:

1. Durian – very interesting flavor – unlike anything we tried before;
2. Guava – it reminded us of a pear that is not ripe;
3. Mangosteen – flavor explosion;
4. Passion fruit – sweet and sour flavor that is so divine;
5. Jackfruit – crunchy yet reminds more of a chip rather than a fruit.

We will be trying out as many endemic fruits as possible to enjoy and immerse in the countries that we visit.