What traditional dish is associated with Songkran?

What traditional dish is associated with Songkran? Khao chae is the traditional dish most closely associated with Songkran in Thailand.

The name khao chae means “rice soaked in water.” It consists of rice served in cool, scented water alongside carefully prepared accompaniments such as stuffed peppers, shredded sweetened beef or pork, fried shallots and carved vegetables. The cooling meal is especially suited to Thailand’s hot season, when Songkran takes place in April.

Khao chae has Mon roots and was adapted into Thai royal cuisine. It became associated with the court during the reign of King Rama II, after which regional and household versions developed. It was once considered an elite dish, but is now available more widely during the hot season. Mango sticky rice, tom yum and pad Thai are also famous Thai foods, but they are not the canonical answer to this Songkran-specific food question. Khao chae is particularly linked with seasonal dining and traditional New Year observances.