The jewel of budget street food: 20 baht noodles in Kanchanaburi

We are sure that you are well aware of the street food scene in Thailand, where dishes from all walks of life can be found on every corner. No matter if you’re in Bangkok or any other city in the Kingdom of Thailand, street food vendors are always around to offer delicious and affordable meals.

There is no separating flavoursome street food from Thai culture, Jae Nai, located in the very heart of Kanchanaburi is a perfect example. In the province’s lively Red City Market lies a humble noodle stall that has been stealing the hearts of many online users.

Focused on classic noodle dishes, Jae Nai remains true to embodying the essence of Thai street food. They are a mouthwatering sight for any passersby. But what made them such a popular spot among locals?

Local street food staple

As with many popular food spots in Thailand, their (not so) secrets of success lie within their tenure. The vendor started helping out at the stall ever since he was five years old, and now he’s been serving up noodles for close to half a century.

Nowadays, the stall has become a must-visit destination in Kanchanaburi, and for good reason, their commitment to quality shines through every plate. From carefully measuring ingredients to trade secret wok techniques, Jae Nai elevated by attention to detail and consistency.

Specialities of the stall

The star of the show here is undoubtedly the Pad Kee Mao, (roughly translated to drunken noodles), made with Mama brand instant noodles. This spicy stir-fried dish is packed with bold flavours and is a favourite among regulars.

As their menu highlight, Pad Kee Mao sells like hotcakes, so it’s recommended to get there early if you want to give it a try.

Another must-try is the classic Pad Thai, a staple in Thai street food culture. For just 20 baht, your plate is piled high with a slice of Thai culinary heritage. The combination of rice noodles, tofu, eggs, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce strikes a perfect balance of the trifecta of Thai flavours: sweet, salty, and sour (with just a hint of spice).

The stall also offers a range of other stir-fried dishes, including Pad See Ew (stir-fried noodles with soy sauce), Mee Sua (thin wheat noodles), and even Macaroni for those looking to try something a bit different.

On Mondays, the stall sticks to its six tried and true menus, while other days like Tuesdays boast up to nine varieties, ensuring no stomachs remain empty.

Affordable at its best

At just 20 baht per dish, the stall perfectly juggles affordability and deliciousness, serving as a perfect example of how street food in Thailand can be both high-quality and budget-friendly. Even the Macaroni, which is slightly more expensive at 25 baht, is still a steal for the quantity and flavour it delivers.

Rest assured that despite the low cost, no corners are cut here when it comes to ingredients. Only fresh vegetables are used. Carrots, leafy greens, and tomatoes are plentiful, complementing each dish with texture and colour.

No stones being left unturned also extends to the consistency of their food. The vendor pre-measures the ingredients for every dish on their menu, which is why their dishes have remained delicious for countless years.

Their attention to detail has inevitably set them apart from many street food stalls around Thailand, constructing a reputation of excellence within their practices.

Keys to street food flavour

Cooking techniques play a crucial role in how the dishes come out. By stir-frying in large woks over high heat, the vendor achieves that iconic ‘wok hei’ or breath of the wok, which adds a distinctive smoky depth to the noodles.

The hint of smokiness can’t be easily replicated at home as it is a signature of tenured and seasoned woks. The vendor insists that using a large wok is essential and insists that smaller woks just don’t deliver the same intensity of flavour. In markets as busy as the Red City Market, speed is of the essence, and big woks ensure that the noodles are cooked as quickly as possible, while not losing any of its flavours.

If you are ever travelling around Kanchanaburi, Jae Nai is definitely worth a visit, offering a glimpse into the Thai street food culture. Prepared by a vendor who’s been perfecting the recipe for countless years, you won’t be left disappointed.

The variety of dishes, from the spicy Pad Kee Mao to the sweet and savoury Pad Thai, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with prices starting at just 20 baht, it’s an unbeatable dining option for budget travellers. Whether you’re a seasoned street food enthusiast or a curious first-timer, this stall encapsulates everything that makes Thai street food so special – bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

So next time you find yourself in Kanchanaburi, make sure to stop by this iconic noodle stall. Whether you’re craving a plate of Pad Kee Mao or looking to try something new, you won’t be disappointed.