Songkran is Thailand’s traditional New Year and water festival. Celebrated in mid-April every year, this festival is marked by cleansing rituals, including “water throwing” as a symbolic means of washing away the past’s misfortunes and preparing for a fresh start. Songkran is also full of delicious food, with snacks, fresh fruits and vegetables, and hearty mains bringing family and friends together. If you want to bring the flavors of Songkran into your home, International Fresh Market has you covered, with essential products and ingredients from our Asian grocery store that will help you prepare for this joyous festival.
The Meaning of Songkran & Its Traditions
Songkran is said to be rooted in a Hindu spring festival that marked the arrival of a new season. The word “Songkran” is derived from a phrase that means to “enter” or “step into.” During the three-day festival, participants perform rituals such as deep-cleaning their homes, pouring scented water onto Buddha statues, and releasing fish into waterways.
Food is one way people find connection during Songkran. Traditional meals and snacks allow celebrants to honor their ancestors and pave the way for a fruitful, good-karma-filled year ahead. Songkran is celebrated all through Thailand, so many participants go to local restaurants or street vendors, while also preparing incredible, flavor-filled meals to enjoy at home while surrounded with family members and close friends.
Must-Try Dishes for Songkran
Songkran’s traditional dishes are all about fresh flavors. Som tum is a green papaya salad that is the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and refreshing. This dish packs a punch while also providing an ideal respite from hot weather. Pad Thai is a traditional street food favorite. Made with rice noodles, shrimp, peanuts, and fish sauce, pad Thai is both hearty and light.
Khao niew mamuang, or mango sticky rice, is a sweet and creamy dessert that can be enjoyed on the go or around a table filled with friends and family. Made with fresh mango, coconut milk, and rice, this dessert is light enough to enjoy for breakfast as well. On the other end of the spectrum is gai yang, a hearty entree made with seasoned grilled chicken. This popular street food is marinated in a mixture of lemongrass, fish sauce, and garlic before being served alongside sticky rice and a variety of dipping sauces.
Bringing Songkran to Your Kitchen
To easily prepare Songkran meals and dishes, stock your pantry well in advance with a few staple ingredients. Items like fish sauce, Thai chilies, tamarind paste, and coconut milk can be used in a variety of dishes and pack a lot of flavor. You can also focus on creating a festive atmosphere in your home to recreate the energy and vibe of the festival.
Pick up some traditional Thai drinks from International Fresh Market to place around the table or chilled, in a large serving bowl, and make sure to have plenty of fresh herbs in your refrigerator. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as lemon basil, can instantly elevate dishes such as grilled chicken.
Visit International Fresh Market for Asian Grocery Store Essentials
Songkran is all about embracing new possibilities and the joy that comes from being alongside friends and family. By making any of these dishes, you can recreate the excitement of the festival at home and discover a taste of Thai culture. To pick up everything you need to celebrate Songkran, visit International Fresh Market, your local Asian grocery store in Naperville. We can help you find everything on your grocery list and answer any questions you might have about ingredients and pantry staples for Songkran.
