'Vatch's Thai Cookbook' is an evocative journey through the main regions of Thailand, in search of the individual sauces, herbs and spices which make up the rich and unmistakable taste of the world's favourite 'exotic' cuisine. The book gives information on how to recognize, choose, prepare and preserve the 39 essential ingredients that lie at the heart of Thai cooking. From Lemon Grass to Pickled Garlic, each ingredient has its own section, with easy-to-follow recipes that highlight its particular pungent flavour. The 130 recipes intersperse these ingredient sections, with such mouthwatering dishes as Hot and Sour Soup with Prawns and Lemon, Fried Fish with Crispy Garlic and Steamed Mushroom Curry with Sweet Basil.


This culinary journey is set in its cultural context. Each chapter begins with an introduction to a different part of the country associated with the particular ingredients which follow, including some of the lesser-known parts of Thailand; the North East, the South and the Gulf Islands. The book is a valuable guide not only to the cook, but also to the more adventurous traveller in search of a better understanding of the country and its cooking.