Eat
JOOYS has curated a list of the top 10 must-try local desserts in Phuket that are exclusive to the area due to Chinese influences. These sweets have distinct flavors and are definitely worth trying during your visit to the city.
1. A-Pong
A-Pong is a traditional Malaysian dessert known as "Kanom Bueng" that became popular in Phuket when Malaysian Chinese from Penang settled there. Its sweet and aromatic flavor from coconut milk, crispy texture, and soft inside make it a favorite snack to eat between meals. A-Pong is best enjoyed with a cup of tea, either hot or cold.
2. O-Aew
O-Aew is a well-known local dessert in Phuket, made from the agar of O-Aew seeds, which come from a type of fig plant. The people of Phuket often consume O-Aew in the form of shaved ice, mixed with various ingredients. It is particularly popular as a refreshing treat on hot days.
How to order O-Aew
🔺Khao Dam Dang (White, Black, Red) means O-Aew with red beans and grass jelly.
🔺Khao Dang (White, Red) means O-Aew, put only red beans.
🔺Khao Dam (White, Black,) means O-Aew, only wear grass jelly.
3. Biko Moi
Biko Moi is an old-fashioned Phuket dessert made of black glutinous rice and fresh coconut milk. It's a popular afternoon snack with a sticky and fragrant texture that perfectly balances sweet, oily, and salty flavors.
4. Roti
Roti is a fried flour appetizer that can be served with a range of toppings, making for a diverse range of dishes. Toppings include milk and sugar, egg, banana and egg, and Mataba curry. Roti is widely enjoyed in Phuket as a dessert or appetizer, and can be served for breakfast or dinner.
5. Ko Sui
Ko Sui is a type of dessert with a sticky texture and a sweet taste. The brown pastry is made from rice flour, tapioca flour, lye, and brown sugar. It is usually eaten with grated coconut mixed with a little salt. It's a delightful dessert to chew and enjoy.
6. Pao Lang
The Pao Lang is a dessert made from sticky rice that is grilled and stuffed with coconut mixed with ground dried shrimp and pepper. It is wrapped in banana leaves by rolling and using a skewer to knot both ends. Then it is toasted to make the glutinous rice slightly brown on the outside.
7. Kanom Prik
The appearance of Kanom Prik may resemble cookies, but they are made with a mixture of pepper. As you take a bite, you will experience a crispy texture with a slightly sweet and fragrant taste, followed by a spicy kick from the pepper.