If you’ve ever tasted traditional Thai rice porridge, you’re probably picturing a comforting bowl of warm, soupy goodness—especially common across Northern and Northeastern Thailand. But here in Phuket, locals have reinvented the way rice porridge is served. Introducing one of the most underrated Southern Thai dishes: Khao Tom Haeng, or Phuket-style Dry Rice Porridge. It’s a must-try culinary gem that blends tradition with a surprising twist.
🥢 What Is Khao Tom Haeng?
Literally translated as “dry boiled rice,” this dish might sound like an oxymoron—but it makes perfect sense once you taste it. The rice is fully cooked but not swimming in broth like traditional porridge. Instead, it’s plated dry and fluffy, served separately from a richly flavored clear soup that comes in a small bowl on the side. Think of it as deconstructed porridge, Phuket-style.
What sets this dish apart is the intensity of flavor and the abundance of toppings. The rice is generously layered with your choice of proteins—usually pork, chicken, or seafood—along with minced garlic, fresh coriander, fried shallots, spring onions, crispy pork bits, or even braised offals for the daring foodie.
The soup is made with slow-boiled pork or chicken bones, giving it a light yet savory depth. When poured over the rice, it slowly soaks into the grains, releasing flavors in waves. Some locals mix everything up immediately, while others sip the broth alongside each bite. Either way, it’s a beautifully balanced experience.
🌶️ A Phuket Breakfast You’ll Never Forget
While Pad Thai and Tom Yum steal the spotlight in tourist menus, it’s dishes like Khao Tom Haeng that truly reflect Phuket’s rich food culture. Locals flock to morning markets or small roadside eateries before heading to work, and this dish is often sold out by mid-morning.
As someone from the Northeast of Thailand myself, I grew up with soupy rice dishes. But the first time I tried Phuket’s dry version, I was shocked—in the best way. It’s comforting, flavorful, and deeply rooted in Southern Thai identity.
If you’re planning your Phuket adventure, don’t leave without tasting this unforgettable breakfast dish. It’s more than just food—it’s a local secret served in a bowl.
🔍 Where to Find It
You’ll find Khao Tom Haeng in local food markets, street stalls, and specialty breakfast shops across the island. Some of the best versions are tucked away in Old Phuket Town or small communities where recipes have been handed down for generations.
Ask for “ข้าวต้มแห้ง” (pronounced Khao Tom Haeng) and look out for long queues—that’s usually the best sign!