Khao Chae – A Taste of Thai Summer at Up & Above Restaurant

Tuesday 04 April 2017 11:57
Khao Chae, a traditional dish with a regal history, is the perfect way to beat the heat of the hot season. Eaten only during the summer months, it comprises of rice steeped in iced jasmine-scented water accompanied by a selection of side dishes. Literally meaning 'soaked rice', when Khao Chae first became popular in Thailand almost 200 years ago it was known as Chao Wang or 'the dish from the Palace' because it was particularly loved by royalty. Of course, in those days the country had no ice, so the water in which the rice was served was chilled using earthenware jars that were kept in the shade and sometimes partly buried.

Today the popular summer dish includes rice in iced jasmine-infused water served with shredded sweet pork, shredded sweet beef, fried fish with shrimp paste balls, and sweet peppers stuffed with pork and encased in an egg wrap. These are first steamed and then fried to a beautiful consistency before being allowed to cool. Other condiments include fried shallots and fish balls, and stir-fried sweet pickled Chinese turnips with egg. Light, fragrant and full of flavour, Khao Chae offers a refreshing culinary treat on a hot summer's day.

Khao Chae is available daily from 1 – 30 April 2017, 12 p.m. – 10.30 p.m., at Up & Above Restaurant. Priced at Baht 525++. Up & Above Restaurant is located on the 24th floor of The Okura Prestige Bangkok. For information and reservations, please call 02 687 9000 or email [email protected].

Price is subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax.