Pioneering Thai restaurant operator, Mango Tree Worldwide, is leading a campaign to discover the “roots” of southern Thai culinary culture ahead of bringing the “fruits” of its learnings to the world later this year. A total of 15 chefs came from Mango Tree Worldwide came to the South of Thailand, learning from local communities who live in a genuinely sustainable way inspired by the teachings of the late King Rama IX.
During the time in the south, the group worked with local fishermen and farmers to understand the true essence and heart of Southern Thai culinary culture through a series of workshops to learn about native ingredients, cooking techniques and most importantly their cultural context.
Because of this trip, Mango Tree Worldwide will introduce the menu crafted by these talented chefs. Luckily, we have had a sneak peek of these Southern Thai dishes.
Indulged in the beautiful view of River Chao Praiya, we began our evening with some healthy cocktail. Watching the sunset by the river, enjoying a meal of Southern Thai dishes, it was definitely an unforgettable evening.
We especially like the Tumeric Fried Sand Whiting Fish, Sand Whiting Fish is a unique harvest from the South of Thailand. It was perfectly fried to reach crispiness on the outside and juiciness on the inside. Another dish that is unforgettable is Crab Leg, Crab Roe & Chaiya Salted Egg Relish, which was best for savouring with rice. It was well balanced with all five flavours!
The Southern Journey
Starter
Stewed Turmeric Eggs
The stew was flavoursome, very rich in herbs and spices. The egg was boiled in the stew for just right amount of time. Time was controlled so perfectly that the egg yolk was not hardened. A simple Thai delicacy became a bite of unforgettable memory.
Turmeric Fried Sand Whiting Fish
Char-grilled Golek Chicken Skewer
Sand Whiting Fish is a unique kind of fish found in the South of Thailand. It’s a small fish but tastes delicate. The sand whiting fish was fried to reach the wonderful crispiness on the outside, leaving its juiciness on the inside. It would be lovelier to savour this little fish with a tankard of beer. The chicken skewer was also a wonderful match.
Mains
Spicy ‘Mud’ Squid Ink Rice
This traditional dish is known as ‘Khao Yum’. It is a rice salad and nearly ubiquitous in the South. This dish was made of squid ink rice with julienned herbs and vegetables. It’s refreshing.
Crab Leg, Crab Roe & Chaiya Salted Egg Relish
MaMa Mia!! This dish is just like something coming down from heaven! A full mouth of fresh crab with the curry sauce full of flavours. The gimmick of this dish is the use of salted egg, adding an extra layer of aroma and pleasing flavours.
Aunty Kanya’s Shrimp Paste Hot & Sour Soup
This dish is a traditional Southern Thai cuisine. For people who do not like shrimp paste. This hot and sour soup was strong in flavour. It’s best to enjoy with a bowl of steaming rice.
Dessert
Chaiya Salted Egg Ice Cream
Brown Sugar Cheesecake
The dessert ended the dinner with satisfaction. It was sweet enough to leave an unforgettable memory.
Preserved Nipa Palm Fruit
Who in Gourmet Bangkok team experienced Mango Tree on the River?
Chelsea Chan ~ A food lover, golfer, fun lover, and adventurer
Chelsea was born in Hong Kong and is a genuine food lover. Her palate is especially sharp on Cantonese food, delicacies from Hong Kong and meat (especially beef, chicken and lamb). She is able to taste how the food is cooked and prepared. Besides, she is also a pro buffet gourmet because of her unlimited appetite. When she says ‘too sweet’, it may not be sweet for you as her preference for chocolate is 72++ dark chocolate.
Jeknoi Changpuak ~ A lifestyle journalist, sharp brain, and Chinese guru
Jeknoi was born in Taiwan and is a linguist. Ever since joining the Gourmet Bangkok Team, he has been contributing to our Chinese articles. He is a professional journalist and interviews successful businessmen and special persons for his column in various Chinese newspapers published in Taiwan. He is the owner and founder of 泰國菁菁寮 Jeknoi Changpuak.
Where is Mango Tree on the River?
Mango Tree on the River
Address: 240 Khwaeng Wang Burapha Phirom, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200
Phone: +662 110 0820
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