Bangkok is a vibrant, bustling city, known for its street food, temples, and markets. But if you're a spice lover, it's also a goldmine for culinary treasures. Whether you're looking for something fragrant to take back home or just curious about the local flavours, Bangkok has a lot to offer when it comes to spices. Let’s dive into the best places to buy them and what to look out for.
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Top Places to Buy Spices in Bangkok
1. Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest and most famous markets in the world. Here, you’ll find rows upon rows of stalls selling everything from clothes to antiques, and of course, spices. The market has a dedicated section for food and herbs, where you can buy dried chilies, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and other essential Thai spices.
While browsing, look out for stalls selling pre-packaged spice mixes. These are great for tourists because they often come with instructions on how to use them in Thai dishes. Chatuchak also offers bulk options if you're planning to stock up.
Best buys: Dried chilies, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and lemongrass.
Tip: Since it’s only open on weekends, plan your trip accordingly. Be sure to bargain a little; it's part of the shopping culture here.
2. Or Tor Kor Market
If you’re after fresh, high-quality spices, Or Tor Kor Market is the place to be. Located near Chatuchak, it’s a more upscale market where locals and chefs shop. You’ll find fresh herbs like basil, coriander, and mint, along with fresh chilies, garlic, and ginger.
The market also has a fantastic selection of dried spices and pastes. The quality is top-notch, making it a favourite among those who want the best for their cooking. While it’s a bit pricier than other markets, you’ll find that the freshness and variety make it worth the extra baht.
Best buys: Fresh herbs like Thai basil, coriander, and lime leaves, along with fresh galangal and ginger.
Tip: Or Tor Kor is more expensive than other markets, but the quality justifies it. If you’re serious about cooking, this is the spot to shop.
3. Spice Story
For a more curated experience, Spice Story is a fantastic shop located in some of Bangkok’s high-end malls. They specialise in premium Thai spices, all beautifully packaged, making them ideal for gifts or souvenirs.
Spice Story is particularly good if you’re looking for a hassle-free shopping experience. The staff are knowledgeable and can guide you through the different spices and their uses. The packaging also includes detailed descriptions in English, which is helpful for tourists.
Best buys: Pre-packaged curry pastes, Thai spice mixes, and exotic spices like saffron and vanilla pods.
Tip: The prices here are higher, but you’re paying for convenience, quality, and beautiful packaging. Perfect if you're short on time and want to avoid the chaos of street markets.
4. Yaowarat (Chinatown)
Chinatown is one of the most exciting places in Bangkok, and it’s also a hidden gem for spice shopping. Here, you’ll find small, family-run shops selling spices, herbs, and dried goods. You can wander through the bustling streets and discover everything from star anise and cinnamon to Thai-style curry powders.
Chinatown offers a mix of Thai, Chinese, and other Southeast Asian spices, making it an excellent spot for variety. Plus, the atmosphere is electric – there’s so much to explore that you might end up spending more time here than planned.
Best buys: Star anise, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and Chinese five-spice powder.
Tip: Don’t forget to sample some street food while you’re there. Chinatown has some of the best eats in Bangkok, and you can pick up a few snacks while you shop.
5. Sampeng Market
If you love a bargain, head to Sampeng Market. Located in the heart of Chinatown, Sampeng is a wholesale market where you can buy spices in bulk at incredibly low prices. The narrow alleyways are packed with vendors selling everything from fabrics to kitchenware, but if you look closely, you’ll also find hidden gems like bags of dried chilies, turmeric, and spice blends.
While it can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of stalls, it’s worth it for the deals. You can buy enough spices to last you for months at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere.
Best buys: Bulk spices like turmeric, dried chilies, and curry powders.
Tip: Bring cash and be prepared to bargain. Prices here are flexible, especially if you're buying in bulk.
6. Taling Chan Floating Market
For a unique shopping experience, visit Taling Chan Floating Market. While it’s primarily a tourist spot, you can find some excellent spices here, sold by local vendors from their boats. It’s a fun way to shop and gives you a glimpse of traditional Thai market life.
Taling Chan is smaller than other floating markets, but that makes it more manageable. You’ll find fresh produce, herbs, and spices, as well as Thai sweets and snacks. The vendors are friendly, and you can often sample the spices before you buy.
Best buys: Fresh herbs, curry pastes, and Thai snack spices.
Tip: Combine your spice shopping with a boat tour to make the most of the day. It’s a perfect weekend activity if you're looking for a mix of sightseeing and shopping.
What Spices to Buy in Bangkok
Now that you know where to shop, let’s talk about what to buy. Thai cuisine is known for its balance of flavours – spicy, sour, sweet, and salty – and the spices used reflect this. Here are some must-buy spices when in Bangkok:
1. Dried Chilies
Dried chilies are used in countless Thai dishes, from soups to stir-fries. You’ll find both small, fiery chilies and larger, milder ones. They're great for adding heat to your dishes or making your own chili flakes.
2. Galangal
Galangal is a root similar to ginger but with a more citrusy, peppery flavour. It's an essential ingredient in Thai soups like Tom Yum and curries. Fresh galangal is widely available, but you can also find dried or powdered versions.
3. Kaffir Lime Leaves
These aromatic leaves are a key component in Thai cooking, adding a bright, citrusy flavour to soups, curries, and stir-fries. You can buy them fresh, dried, or frozen, depending on where you shop.
4. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is another staple in Thai cuisine, known for its citrusy aroma. It’s used in soups, curries, and even teas. You can buy it fresh at most markets, but dried lemongrass is also available for convenience.
5. Curry Pastes
Thai curry pastes are a convenient way to recreate authentic Thai dishes at home. Green curry, red curry, and massaman curry pastes are some of the most popular ones. You can find them pre-packaged or freshly made at local markets.
6. Coriander Seeds
Coriander seeds add a warm, citrusy flavour to dishes. They're often used in Thai curry pastes and spice blends. You can buy them whole or ground, depending on your preference.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is a vibrant yellow spice that's not only used in cooking but also has medicinal properties. It’s commonly found in curries and soups, adding both colour and flavour.
8. Thai Basil
Thai basil has a slightly spicy, anise-like flavour and is used in stir-fries, soups, and salads. You can buy it fresh at most markets, but dried options are also available.
9. Star Anise
Star anise has a sweet, licorice-like flavour and is often used in Thai soups and stews. It's a key ingredient in many Asian spice blends and adds a warm, aromatic touch to dishes.
10. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is used in both sweet and savoury Thai dishes, especially in curries and stews. You can find cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon at most spice shops in Bangkok.
Why Buy Spices in Bangkok?
Bangkok is at the heart of Southeast Asia’s spice trade. You’ll find a rich variety of spices here, sourced not only from Thailand but also from neighbouring countries. The vibrant markets, the local vendors, and the immense variety available make it a paradise for anyone who loves to cook or explore new flavours.
You’ll notice that spices are a big part of Thai cuisine. From the fiery chilies in papaya salad to the fragrant lemongrass in soups, spices are everywhere. Buying spices from Bangkok gives you a piece of this unique culinary culture to take home.
Tips for Spice Shopping in Bangkok
- Bargain: In most markets, bargaining is expected. Don’t hesitate to ask for a lower price, especially if you’re buying in bulk.
- Bring Cash: Many markets, especially smaller ones, don’t accept cards, so be sure to carry enough cash for your purchases.
- Smell Before You Buy: Spices should smell fresh and fragrant. If they smell dull or dusty, they're probably past their prime.
- Check Customs Regulations: Before buying large quantities of spices to take home, check your country’s customs regulations. Some spices may be restricted or require special permits.
Shopping for spices in Bangkok is an adventure in itself. The markets are lively, colourful, and full of delicious aromas. Whether you're stocking your kitchen or buying gifts, you’ll find something special in this city.
