The Science of Thai Cuisine

Lists of the most popular or delicious dishes in the world always include Thai food. Sriracha sauce has gone from a dipping sauce made in a small town of Thailand to become a recognizable flavor in cuisine worldwide. With a reputation of being hot and spicy, it is not uncommon to see those who try Thai food for the first time shedding tears and sporting a red nose. Yet, the Thai national cuisine has gained high degree of global recognition and admiration despite Thailand being a relatively small country. Is this down to sheer luck, its being an extensive work of art or, possibly, because of scientific literacy?

The Science of Thai Cuisine: Chemical Properties and Sensory Attributes approaches the art of cooking and serving from the perspective of science and proposes the possible rationales behind Thai culinary art. With applied chemistry and sensory science, it bridges the gap between food science and culinary arts, explaining the functional properties and changes in major ingredients and techniques used in Thai cuisine.

Key Features:

Discusses the chemistry of ingredients and techniques in Thai cuisine with possibilities of application and innovation

Presents scientific research combined with arts and history of Thai food

Provides scientific evidence linking Thai food with the sensory perception and the joy of eating

Contains vibrant color photographs of Thai cuisine

While there are numerous cookbooks that feature Thai cuisine, none are dedicated as this to explaining the science behind the ingredients, cooking methods, and sensory aspects. This book will be beneficial to professionals in the food industry, appealing to chefs, food scientists, sensory analysis experts, as well as anyone who has an interest in Thai culture.