A surprising number of Brits remain cautious about "foreign food." Despite the widespread belief that curry has become as much a national dish as roast beef or fish and chips, many are still missing out on flavors they never knew existed. The British palate is not known for its adventurousness, and traditional British cuisine is often seen as bland. However, Thai food offers a vibrant and flavorful alternative that is worth exploring.
Despite the popularity of Indian and Chinese cuisine in the UK, many Brits are still hesitant to try other international foods. While Indian and Chinese dishes have become staples, other cuisines like Mexican and Thai have taken longer to gain acceptance. However, Thai food has seen a significant rise in popularity over the past decade.
Many Brits mistakenly assume that all South East Asian food is similar because of the common presence of rice. This misconception couldn't be further from the truth. Thai cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors and influences, with four distinct regional styles. While there are some similarities to Chinese and Indian food, Thai cuisine offers unique advantages.
Thai cuisine is known for its aromatic flavors and lighter, less fatty dishes compared to Indian food. Essential ingredients include rice, vegetables, fish, and fresh herbs and spices. Turmeric, a common ingredient in Thai cooking, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The relatively small amount of red meat used in Thai recipes makes it one of the healthiest cuisines in the world (source).
One of the best reasons for Brits to try Thai food is the impressive range of flavors. To fully appreciate the experience, it's best to enjoy a meal in the traditional communal manner. Dining with two or three people allows for a variety of dishes to be shared and sampled. Typically, two people might order three dishes in addition to their rice, while three diners might order four or five dishes.
When the food arrives, each diner receives an individual plate of rice, which serves as the base for the meal. Diners can then choose from the shared dishes to create their own plates. Soup is often enjoyed as an accompaniment rather than a separate course, which can be surprising for first-time diners.
Thai food is usually eaten with a fork and spoon, which can be reassuring for those who are not comfortable with chopsticks. Chopsticks are generally only used for some noodle dishes. In some parts of Thailand, it is common to eat with the right hand, but this is less common in British Thai restaurants.
Thai cuisine includes a variety of snacks, side dishes, and main courses. Some popular options include:
Thai restaurants in the UK sometimes adapt their dishes to include local ingredients. For example, broccoli is commonly used in British Thai restaurants but is rarely used in Thailand itself.
Thai cuisine is known for its balance of spicy, sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors. Fresh herbs often take precedence over strong spices, making the flavors less daunting than some Indian curries. Thai curries can be spicy, but the heat is often more fleeting, allowing the palate to enjoy other flavors more quickly. The meal is usually rounded off with a sweet or fruit dessert to contrast with the spices and herbs of the main meal.
Thai dining is not just about taste; it's also a visual and olfactory experience. The presentation of dishes is often colorful and rich in varied textures. The attractiveness of the food, the richness of the flavors, and the emphasis on communal enjoyment make Thai dining an experience that should not be missed.
In conclusion, Thai cuisine offers a rich and varied dining experience that is both healthy and flavorful. For the gastronomically timid British newbie, it provides an opportunity to explore new flavors and enjoy a communal dining experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.
