When it comes to Thai and Singaporean cuisine, most people think of distinct differences between the two. However, there are 7 Thai and Singaporean foods that are so similar you might not be able to tell them apart! Today, Hungry Hub takes you on a culinary journey to explore these 7 foods and see which ones you might have come across before.
7 Thai and Singaporean Foods That Are Surprisingly Alike
1. Khao Mun Gai vs. Hainanese Chicken Rice
Khao Mun Gai 
Hainanese Chicken Rice
Starting with a crowd favorite known in both Thailand and Singapore, “Khao Mun Gai” and “Hainanese Chicken Rice” share origins in Hainan, China. Both feature tender boiled chicken, fragrant rice cooked in broth, and a unique dipping sauce. The difference lies in the sauce: Thailand’s version has a spicy, salty, and tangy flavor, while Singapore’s version leans towards sweet and sour with ginger as a key ingredient. Want to try authentic Hainanese Chicken Rice without flying to Singapore? Head to any Boon Tong Kee branch in Thailand.
- Boon Tong Kee (Book Now!)
2. Laksa vs. Khanom Jeen Nam Ya
Khanom Jeen Nam Ya 
Laksa
Laksa, with its rich coconut curry soup and seafood, bears a strong resemblance to Thailand’s Khanom Jeen Nam Ya. Both are served with similar noodles, but the toppings vary: Laksa often includes shellfish and prawns, while Khanom Jeen Nam Ya usually features boiled eggs.
- Nhomjeen Cafe (Book Now!)
3. Fresh Spring Roll vs. Popiah
Fresh Spring Roll 
Popiah
Thai Fresh Spring Rolls and Singaporean Popiah both use thin wraps filled with fresh vegetables, protein, and herbs. The highlight of the Thai version is its peanut dipping sauce, while Popiah features sweet radish filling, offering a soft texture and a subtle aroma. Both are excellent healthy appetizer choices.
4. Pad Mee vs. Fried Hokkien Mee
ผัดหมี่ 
Fried Hokkien Mee
These noodle dishes share similarities in preparation and flavor. Thai “Pad Mee” is sweet and savory, often including eggs, bean sprouts, and shrimp. Singapore’s Fried Hokkien Mee uses thick noodles stir-fried in prawn broth, delivering a juicier and more seafood-centric taste. Both are intensely flavorful and satisfyingly hearty.
5. Green Curry Chicken vs. Chicken Curry
Green Curry Chicken 
Chicken Curry
Thai Green Curry and Singaporean Chicken Curry both rely on coconut milk as a primary ingredient. Thai Green Curry is rich with fresh herbs and spices, while Chicken Curry in Singapore uses dry spices for a bold and spicy flavor. Both are best enjoyed with steaming white rice.
- Try Thai Green Curry at Longtail Restaurant (Book Now!)
6. Som Tum vs. Achar
Som Tum 
Achar
Thailand’s Som Tum, a spicy green papaya salad loved worldwide, contrasts with Singapore’s Achar, a sweet-and-sour pickled vegetable salad featuring unique spices like cloves and cinnamon. While both are refreshing, Achar offers a distinctive aromatic twist. You can now enjoy Som Tum and other Thai dishes in both countries. Don’t wait—give Som Tum a try today!
- Try Som Tom at Tum 20 Ratchada-Sutthisan, Thailand (Book Now!)
- Try Signature Crispy Som Tum at Super Thai by Soi Aroy , Singapore (Book Now!)
7. Rice Porridge vs. Teochew Porridge
Rice Porridge 
Teochew Porridge
Thailand’s Rice Porridge, often infused with ginger and seasoning for a spicy kick, is a breakfast staple. In contrast, Singapore’s Teochew Porridge offers a milder flavor and is served with side dishes like salted fish or pickled vegetables.
These 7 dishes showcase the culinary connections between Thailand and Singapore while retaining their own national identities and flavors. Whether you’re craving Thai or Singaporean cuisine with unbeatable deals and unique offers, Hungry Hub is here to satisfy your taste buds.
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