PART TWO
THAI

Influenced by the many cultures including the Portuguese, Indonesians, Indians, and Chinese, Thai cuisine carefully balances sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and hot flavors in every meal. The key flavoring agents found in a Thai kitchen include coconut, lime, chili, garlic, ginger, cilantro, and dried fish (to make fish sauce). These ingredients are as basic as salt and pepper are to a Western kitchen.

The delicate blend of flavors may seem difficult to duplicate, but with these simple, delicious recipes, you’ll never need to pull out that Thai takeout menu again!