Thai Food

Thai food, or food from the country of Thailand, incorporates a mixture of international flavors from multiple Asian countries, France and Portugal. Based on the geography and political history of Thailand, the influx of other cultures into the Thai culture resulted in the fusion of flavors to create distinctly Thai blends. Thai food is generally focused on balancing opposing flavors and using fresh ingredients. Sweet is paired with sour and spicy items with a cooling ingredients. The result are dishes that provide different flavor sensations with every bite. There is also an emphasis on the food being pleasing to the eye.http://www.sawadee.com/thailand/food/index.htm

Thai food is known for its use of coconut milk, curry and rice. Thai cuisine is usually eaten with a fork and spoon, not chopsticks. Dishes are meant to be shared among all parties at a meal, and spicy dishes are meant to be balanced with mild ones. Common dishes include Pad Thai and Pad See Ew.http://www.sawadee.com/thailand/food/index.htm

A Thai meal traditionally includes multiple courses of dishes. Often, a meal will start with tidbits or hors d'oeuvres. Some typical options include satay and spring rolls. Small salads featuring a peanut based sauce if often next. After the salad, a clear broth soup is presented. For the main course, several dishes are usually offered "family-style". Dishes often include a steamed entrée, a fried option, and a hot stir-fry dish. the final course is followed by a desert of fresh fruit.http://www.sawadee.com/thailand/food/index.htm#What Comprises a Thai Meal

The fruit of the durian tree is popular, especially as a dessert, in Thailand.http://durian.net/ Inside its spiny husk, it holds a custard-like edible material that exudes a strong smell. The varieties grown in Thailand have a milder odor. While some are undisturbed by the scent, others compare it to the odor of a latrine.