�What are the herbs and spices that give Thai cuisine its unique character?�Which ones have medicinal uses as well?�Simple but information-packed descriptions and explanations�Detailed close-up photographs to aid in identification�Helpful tips for using and storing�Recipes that bring together herbs and spices to create an authentic Thai flavor

JAMES BEARD AWARD FINALIST • Welcome to a beautiful, deep dive into the cuisine and culture of northern Thailand with a documentarian's approach, a photographer's eye, and a cook's appetite. Known for its herbal flavors, rustic dishes, fiery dips, and comforting noodles, the food of northern Thailand is both ancient and ever evolving. Travel province by province, village by village, and home by home to meet chefs, vendors, professors, and home cooks as they share their recipes for Muslim-style khao soi, a mild coconut beef curry with boiled and crispy fried noodles, or spiced fish steamed in banana leaves to an almost custard-like texture, or the intense, numbingly spiced meat "salads" called laap. Featuring many recipes never before described in English and snapshots into the historic and cultural forces that have shaped this region's glorious cuisine, this journey may redefine what we think of when we think of Thai food.

This handy field guide introduces over 35 herbs, spices and aromatics commonly found in Thailand. Each exotic item is described in detail and its country of origin and areas of growth are discussed. Culinary options are given, with tips and how to make the most of these tasty flavorings, and there are four recipes. Illustrated with beautiful color photographs, clearly presented for easy identification, this book is a "must" for lovers of tropical tastes.

Thai food is tasty and provides high nutrition with medicinal values. Containing small amount of fat, it is widely recognized as an ideal for healthy food. The ingredients require little meat whereas herbs and spices full of medicinal properties are welcomed. Garlic, for example, helps reduce blood pressure. Shallot eases cold symptoms. Chili stimulates blood circulation. Lemongrass relieves digestive disorders and increases urine flow. Galangal, meanwhile, eases gastrointestinal discomfort.The herbs and spices used in Thai food provide distinctive flavor and aroma to certain dishes. Lemongrass added in Hot and Sour Soup with Prawns helps remove the prawn odor, making the soup be even more tasty. Galangal added in Chicken Galangal in Coconut Cream Soup enhances the aroma and reduces oily taste of coconut cream.Thai dishes cooked with herbs and spices come in various kinds including Hot and Sour Soup, Tangy Soup, Savory Fried Beef, as well as Fried Fish in Sweet Chili Sauce. According each culinary herb and spice has unique marvelous fragrance and taste; it should be selected appropriately.