Publisher's Synopsis
Thai meals typically consist of rice with many complementary dishes shared by all. The dishes are all served at the same time, including the soups, and it is also customary to provide more dishes than there are guests at a table. A Thai family meal would normally consist of rice with several dishes which should form a harmonious contrast of flavors and textures as well as preparation methods. Traditionally, a meal would have at least five elements: a dip or relish for raw or cooked vegetables is the most crucial component of any Thai meal The other elements would include a clear soup (perhaps a spicy tom yam or a mellow tom chuet), a curry or stew, a deep-fried dish and a stir fried dish of meat, fish, seafood, or vegetables.
