With an abundance of spices and herbs, Thai cuisine is not only delicious but also beneficial for your health. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to take advantage of this.
With a variety of spices and herbs, Thai dishes are good for your health. However, not everyone knows how to take advantage of that. Junie Kovacs, a Thai culinary expert who has taught cooking in many countries, shares some tips on how to cook authentic Thai dishes that are good for your health.
Thai cuisine is a characteristic of the tropical country with many fresh ingredients – Photo: Shutterstock
– Use fresh ingredients. The market with a variety of fresh ingredients is a great advantage in Asian countries compared to the freezer section in the West. Make use of it.
– Add vegetables. Many Thai dishes are served with a plate of vegetables on the side, which can be cucumber, string beans, apple, eggplant, bean sprouts, chives… They are excellent sources of vitamins. Don’t forget about them!
– Thai dishes use a lot of available herbs. They are also excellent herbal remedies for your health, such as fresh chili rich in vitamin A, C, K; lemongrass rich in iron and potassium; ginger good for digestion and treating the common cold…
– Don’t forget the broth. Just a little bit of oil is used to sauté garlic, while the broth is fully utilized to help stir-fries from drying out.
– Natural sweetness. Coconut milk and palm sugar are commonly used in Thai cuisine, giving natural sweetness to the dishes. They are definitely healthier for you than refined sugar.
– Fish sauce. Compared to salt, it adds protein, vitamins, and minerals. Of course, fish sauce also enhances the flavor of the food significantly.
– Don’t Westernize Thai dishes. Cream, butter, milk are not ingredients in Thai dishes.
– Cook quickly. Thanks to quick cooking, the nutrients in Thai dishes can be preserved.
– Eat lightly. Thais usually eat when they are hungry, not snacking on various junk foods like in the West. A hot pot or a plate of chilled fruits may not be as convenient as a pack of pastries or a plate of crispy french fries from a fast-food restaurant, but they are definitely better for your health.
– Balance. Thai dishes are not only balanced in flavor but also balanced for your body. For example, “heavier” dishes are served with “lighter” ones. A clear example is curry with coconut milk, which is often served with raw vegetables.
Nhat Khue
Frequently asked questions
Here are some key tips to enhance the flavor and authenticity of your Thai dishes: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially for herbs and spices. Balance the five key flavors – sour, sweet, salty, bitter, and umami. Incorporate aromatic ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal. Use chili peppers wisely to add heat and flavor. Freshly pounded curry pastes make a big difference in taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different proteins and vegetables.
To elevate your Thai curry, follow these suggestions: Start with a good quality curry paste, or better yet, make your own. Use coconut milk as the base liquid for your curry; it adds richness and sweetness. Add vegetables, meats, or seafood of your choice, ensuring they are fresh and of good quality. Taste and adjust the seasoning with fish sauce, palm sugar, or lime juice to achieve a balance of flavors. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to add aroma and freshness.
Some essential ingredients to keep on hand for Thai cooking include: Rice – jasmine or sticky rice are commonly used. Chili peppers – fresh birds-eye chilies or dried chilies for heat and flavor. Curry paste – red, green, or massaman curry pastes are versatile and convenient. Coconut milk – an essential ingredient for curries and desserts. Fish sauce – adds a unique savory flavor to dishes. Palm sugar – provides a sweet, caramel-like flavor. Lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal – aromatic ingredients that enhance flavor.
To create a delicious and authentic pad Thai, consider these tips: Soak and prep the rice noodles correctly to ensure they don’t stick together. Use a wok for stir-frying to get that characteristic ‘breath of the wok’ flavor. Balance the pad Thai sauce with tamarind paste, fish sauce, palm sugar, and chili powder. Add fresh shrimp or tofu for protein, and don’t skimp on the eggs. Garnish with crushed peanuts, bean sprouts, and fresh chives for texture and flavor.
Yes, here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of: Not balancing the five key flavors – too much of one flavor can overpower the dish. Overcooking proteins or vegetables, which can make them tough and unappetizing. Using low-quality or expired ingredients, especially for herbs and spices. Adding too much or too little water when cooking rice; getting the ratio right is crucial. Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning; Thai food is all about balancing those flavors.
Step up your fashion game and exude an air of sophistication and style by embracing the art of mixing and matching shirts à la Salim. Elevate your wardrobe and discover a whole new world of endless outfit possibilities.
Step up your fashion game and exude an air of sophistication and style by embracing the art of mixing and matching shirts à la Salim. Elevate your wardrobe and discover a whole new world of endless outfit possibilities.
