Kaeng som
The backbone of kaeng som is a complex broth made with a trifecta of fragrant herbs and spices. Coconut milk, tamarind paste and kaffir lime leaves come together to form an umami-rich base that piques the palate and preps it for the sweet and salty morsels to come. For added zing, slices of chili pepper are thrown in the mix to provide a gentle heat.
Although this fiery flavor bomb is certainly worth the wait, the centerpiece of kaeng som is unmistakably the fish. Delicate white flakes of sustainably-sourced tilapia or mackerel give this zesty brew a wonderful texture and a salty kiss of the sea. Vegetables such as okra, eggplant, and bamboo shoots round out the medley, and can be cooked to taste.
Comforting, nourishing and satisfying, Thai-style kaeng som is a guaranteed favorite for lunch or dinner. An uncomplicated but sumptuous dish that celebrates the freshest ingredients, it's a treat for food lovers of all ages. As a bonus, it comes with the added benefits of being low in carbs and easy on the wallet. So, why not give this delightful delicacy a try?
Kaeng som recipes
Amazing Kaeng som recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Kaeng som
Kaeng som, one of the most beloved dishes in Thai cuisine, has a storied history and an intriguing origin. This vibrant, hot and sour dish, infused with the aromas of lemongrass and lime leaves, is often found on the tables of local restaurants and family homes alike.
The exact origin of Kaeng som remains a bit of a mystery – with some accounts pointing to a few possible geographical beginnings. Some say it originated in the southern part of Thailand, where it was made with a combination of tomatoes, fish, tamarind and galangal. Others insist that its roots lie in northern Thailand, where cooks used dried chillies, salt, shrimp paste and an abundance of seasonal herbs.
Whichever story one chooses to believe, there is no doubt that the key component of kaeng is the tangy-salty-sweet flavor combination. This flavor profile is achieved primarily through the use of various spices including turmeric, cumin and cardamom, as well as a generous helping of fish sauce.
The dish itself has often been described as being a reflection of Thai culture – emphasizing the importance of balance, harmony and creativity. Each cook brings their own unique touch to the dish, be it a combination of vegetables, herbs and proteins, or a special blend of spices that have been passed down through the generations.
No matter the origin of Kaeng som – whether northern or southern Thailand – it continues to be a beloved staple of Thai cuisine that pleases the eyes, nose, and taste buds all at once!
Types of Kaeng som
Kaeng Som is, simply put, a type of Thai soup that is known around the world for its unique combination of flavors. But when it comes to discussing this beloved dish, there is much more nuance and complexity than one might first assume. In order to understand what Kaeng Som is, one must look at the many different types that exist.
The most classic variation of Kaeng Som is its Southern Thai version, which comes with a distinct sourness. It’s based upon tamarind paste and fish sauce, and is typically served in a clear broth with soft chunks of vegetables. For those wishing to explore their palate, some of the more inventive forms of this dish include the Kaeng Nor Mai, which is made from bamboo shoots and partridge berry, as well as the Kaeng Chang, which is based upon thick pork or chicken stock and is topped with an array of spices.
Kaeng Khio Wan, on the other hand, hails from the northern parts of Thailand. It’s made with a sweet and spicy coconut milk broth and often includes ingredients such as diced eggplant, bell peppers, and kaffir lime leaves. Its spiciness isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those seeking bolder flavors, this is sure to satisfy.
No matter which type of Kaeng Som you choose, each variety can be seen as a delicious reflection of the culinary culture found in Thailand. Whether you opt for something traditional or are looking to experiment with unique ingredients, you can rest assured knowing that your dish will be nothing short of delectable.