In my search for new cuisines and world culture, I have discovered a delicious destination called Thailand.

My great friend and amazing chef in Florida who is affectionately called “Thai Mike” once described the experience of eating Thai food as “tasting colors.” I have to agree with a man who has two huge restaurant-style wok burners in his bamboo filled backyard. Thai food is more tasty, dynamic and vibrant than any other cuisine in the world.

Watching a Thai chef is like a culinary concert or watching artist paint. What a true learning experience.I have never met anyone who does not  thoroughly enjoy Thai food. What I find so fascinating about Thai cuisine is the amazing variety of food combinations.

Here is a good example of one of my fav-o-rite dishes: Thai Chicken Panaang. Chicken, onions and garlic sauteed in Red Panaang curry with Thai basil, Kaffir Lime leaf and then drenched in creamy coconut milk.  

Served over steamy hot Jasmine rice, it’s the reason the phrase “mouth-watering” originated in the first place. I promise  this Thai masterpiece will  make curry your new best friend, mend broken hearts and stop wars!  

Forget the notion that Thai food is too spicy. In its true recipe form it’s quite savory and sweet. It’s just that Thai’s just have a real ‘hot” tooth, if you will.The only difference is that Thai food is as spicy as you would like it to be, and most would agree that a little heat can only makes a dish taste better.

To say I have fallen in love with the Kingdom and its people is an understatement. Thai folk have become my new heroes. Thai’s value their families like no other culture  I know. Thailand has recently survived SARS, Asian Bird Flu, a tsunami and now a coup. And  through all of this, you would never know the pain that is hidden beneath the smiles. It is not in Thai culture to put someone out, especially during trying times. It is that kind of caring for one another that makes Thailand a true Grandfather of  the world.

I plan, through what I have learned about life and food, to take Thai flavor and culture on the ultimate world tour. The Cheffy Baby Thai Cookbook and  TV series are  in currently in the prep kitchens and will be sizzling soon. Stay tuned and “come on, get hungry”