Thai Food Information

Thai Food Information
Thai food recipes are normally spicy, informal and based on rice. In fact, the word kin khao meaning to eat actually means to eat rice. A bowl of rice is usually placed in the center of the table surrounded by other dishes and condiments. It is considered polite to begin the meal with a single spoonful of rice symbolizing the importance of the grain within the Thai culture and way of life.

The host will serve himself or herself with rice first, before offering it to guests. It is important to only take a small helping of each dish. When the meal is over, food should always be left on the plate and in the serving dishes, to emphasize the generosity of the host.

The influence of the Buddhist tradition can be seen in the Thai approach to meat. Thais do not believe that meat should be served in large portions. It is, therefore, always served in small amounts, usually cut into bite size pieces or shredded.

Because meat is always chopped small before cooking, knivs are redundant at a Thai table. Meals are usually eaten with a spoon and a fork. Thai Food Information
Thai food recipes are founded on simple ingredients of excellent quality. Fresh fish from the sea, rice from the fields, aromatic herbs and spices and locally grown fruits and vegetables are just a few of the wonderful ingredients that are enjoyed throughout Thailand. Each region has its own specialties based on locally grown and harvested produce but there are common flavorings and culinary techniques that are used throughout the country, creating a wonderfully varied cuisine.

As promised, I will identify certain food items for you. Here is a list of foods in which you may not be familiar.
Aubergines - Are treated and eaten as vegetables although they are, in fact, a fruit.

Reference: Bastyra, Judith, The Food and Cooking of Thailand