Authentic Thai Omelette Recipe (Kai Jiew) – Crispy, Fluffy, and Irresistible
Kai Jiew (ไข่เจียว) — the humble Thai omelette — is one of Thailand’s most beloved comfort foods. Found in homes, street stalls, and restaurants across the country, it’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with umami flavor. Simple, fast, and budget-friendly — it’s the ultimate Thai-style meal that pairs perfectly with jasmine rice and a drizzle of chili sauce.
🇹🇭 What Is Kai Jiew?
Kai Jiew literally means “fried egg,” but in Thai cuisine, it’s much more than that. Unlike Western omelettes, Thai omelettes are deep-fried in hot oil, creating a golden, crispy texture with airy pockets inside. Often enjoyed with rice and Sriracha or chili sauce, Kai Jiew can be served plain or filled with minced pork (Kai Jiew Moo Sub), shrimp, or vegetables.
🍳 Ingredients
For 1 serving:
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
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½ teaspoon lime juice or vinegar (for extra fluffiness)
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1 tablespoon minced pork or shrimp (optional)
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2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
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Steamed jasmine rice (to serve)
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Chili sauce or Sriracha (for dipping)
🔥 How to Make Thai Omelette (Kai Jiew)
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Beat the Eggs
Crack the eggs into a bowl, add fish sauce and lime juice. Whisk vigorously until light and frothy — this step makes your omelette extra fluffy. -
Heat the Oil
In a small wok or frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil so the omelette can puff up when it hits the pan. -
Fry the Omelette
Pour the egg mixture into the hot oil all at once. It should sizzle immediately and puff up.
Use a spatula to gently push the sides inward to help it cook evenly. -
Flip and Finish
When the bottom is golden brown and crispy, carefully flip the omelette and cook the other side until done. -
Serve Hot
Remove from the pan, drain excess oil on paper towels, and serve with jasmine rice and chili sauce.
🌶️ Tips for the Perfect Thai Omelette
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Use very hot oil to get that signature crispy edge.
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Add a splash of lime juice or vinegar for a lighter texture.
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Want a richer taste? Add a few drops of oyster sauce to the egg mix.
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For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and fish sauce — soy sauce works great!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Thai omelette is a quick meal that can be enjoyed any time of day — breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Pair it with:
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Steamed jasmine rice
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Nam Prik (Thai chili dipping sauce)
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Cucumber slices for freshness
💡 Fun Fact
In Thailand, Kai Jiew is often considered the go-to comfort food when you’re not sure what to eat — locals call it the “lazy meal” because it’s so easy yet delicious!
