Kai Jeow (Thai Omelette)

A Brief Overview

Kai Jeow, or Thai Omelette, is a simple yet delicious staple in Thai cuisine. Known for its fluffy texture and crispy edges, Kai Jeow is often enjoyed as a quick meal or snack and is typically served over steamed rice with a dash of fish sauce and a side of Sriracha or sweet chili sauce. It’s a comfort food that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, capturing the essence of Thai home cooking.

Key Ingredients

Eggs: The main ingredient, typically beaten to incorporate air for a fluffy texture.

Fish Sauce: Adds a salty and umami flavor.

Soy Sauce: Sometimes used for additional depth and color.

Green Onions or Shallots: Often mixed in for a mild onion flavor.

Vegetable Oil: For frying, enough to shallow-fry and achieve the crispy edges.

Optional Fillings: Ground pork, shrimp, crab, or vegetables can be added for variation.

Preparation

Beat the Eggs: In a bowl, beat the eggs with fish sauce (and soy sauce, if using) until well combined and slightly frothy.

Heat the Oil: Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a wok or frying pan over medium-high heat until hot.

Fry the Omelette: Pour the egg mixture into the hot oil. The eggs should puff up immediately. If using fillings like ground pork or shrimp, add them before the eggs start to set.

Cook Until Crispy: Cook until the edges are golden brown and crispy, and the center is cooked through but still tender. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice with a side of Sriracha or sweet chili sauce for dipping.


Recommended Restaurants in Bangkok for Kai Jeow

Jay Fai

Address: 327 Maha Chai Road, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok.
Description: This Michelin-starred street food stall is famous for its crab omelette, which is a luxurious take on Kai Jeow, packed with fresh, succulent crab meat.

Thip Samai Pad Thai

Address: 313 Maha Chai Road, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok.
Description: Known for Pad Thai, Thip Samai also serves an excellent Kai Jeow, cooked to perfection with a fluffy interior and crispy edges.

Raan Jay Fai

Address: 327 Maha Chai Road, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok.
Description: Not to be confused with Jay Fai, this spot is another favorite for its traditional Kai Jeow, offering both plain and variations with pork or shrimp.

Khua Kling Pak Sod

Address: 98/1 Sukhumvit Soi 53, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok.
Description: Known for southern Thai cuisine, Khua Kling Pak Sod offers a flavorful Kai Jeow with a hint of spice and aromatic herbs.

Polo Fried Chicken

Address: 137/1-2 Soi Polo, Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok.
Description: While famous for its fried chicken, Polo Fried Chicken also serves a delicious Kai Jeow that is a must-try for egg lovers.


Conclusion

Kai Jeow is a beloved dish in Thai cuisine that highlights the simplicity and deliciousness of Thai home cooking. With its crispy edges and fluffy center, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Sampling Kai Jeow at these recommended restaurants in Bangkok offers an authentic taste of this Thai classic, showcasing the diverse and rich flavors of Thai cuisine.

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