Twenty years ago, most Americans didn’t know a whole lot about Thailand. Sure, a few intrepid travelers might have swung by this peninsular nation and experienced some of its incredible culture. But most people only had a vague idea of what Thailand was all about. Thai translation wasn’t on people’s minds because Thailand wasn’t even on the collective cultural radar.

Oh how the times have changed. Thai food and Thai culture in the form of dance and Muay Thai kickboxing — just to name a few examples — have exploded onto the American cultural scene. Travel to Thailand is pretty easy these days, which means heaps of Americans and Westerners trek to this stunningly beautiful country every year. And most importantly of all, of course, is the chance to experience the great food.

Thai food and Thai restaurants have blossomed all over the place. Even in midsize, fairly non-multicultural towns, you might run into a Thai food joint. Pretty amazing, right? Thai restaurants are abundant in many parts of the country, it now seems.

If you want to appear like you know a thing or two about Thai cuisine, why not learn the names a few basic food terms? That beats relying solely on the Thai translation found in your menu. Here are a few staple items to get you started.

Basic Thai Food Vocabulary

khai = eggs

khai dao = fried eggs

khao pad = fried rice

baa-mee = egg noodles

nuea = beef

kai = chicken

moo = pork

koong = prawns

kare = Indian style curry

nam kati = Coconut milk

nam pla = fish sauce (important)

khao soi nuea = beef and curry noodle soup

pet = spicy (very important)

mai pet = not spicy

Of course, you might be worried about mucking up the pronunciation a bit. Don’t fret too much. There are plenty of online Thai language guides that will cover you as far as Thai translation and pronunciation are concerned. Thais are usually exceedingly patient with novices attempting to speak their beautiful language.