Milk Street Television Season 2 Episode 6 Secrets of Thailand

In season two, episode six of Milk Street Television, viewers are taken on a culinary journey through the vibrant and rich flavors of Thailand. Titled "Secrets of Thailand," this episode brings host Christopher Kimball and his team to Bangkok to explore the nuances of Thai cuisine and uncover traditional cooking techniques.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to a plethora of Thai ingredients and staples, such as galangal, lemongrass, tamarind, and nam prik pao, and learn how they are used to create delicious and complex dishes. Kimball also visits local markets and street food vendors to gain insight into Thai culture and the importance of food in the country.

One recipe featured in the episode is khao soi, a Northern Thai dish consisting of a creamy coconut curry soup with rice noodles, chicken, and crispy fried noodles on top. Kimball and his team demonstrate how to get the perfect balance of spice and sweetness in the soup, as well as how to make the crispy noodles for garnish.

Another recipe featured in the episode is nam prik pao chicken wings, a riff on traditional Thai grilled chicken. The wings are coated in a sticky and spicy sauce made with nam prik pao, a flavorful chili paste that adds depth of flavor to the dish. Kimball also shares his tips for achieving perfectly crispy and juicy chicken wings every time.

The episode also includes a segment on Thai salads, specifically som tum, a classic dish made with green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a tangy dressing. Kimball shows viewers how to use a mortar and pestle to pound the ingredients together, creating a bright and refreshing salad that is perfect for any occasion.

To add some sweetness to the mix, the episode features a recipe for a Thai-inspired twist on a classic dessert: coconut sticky rice with mango. Kimball and his team demonstrate how to cook the sticky rice to perfection, and show viewers a unique method for creating a sweet and salty coconut sauce that pairs perfectly with ripe mango.

Throughout "Secrets of Thailand," viewers are shown how to balance bold and complex flavors to achieve authentic Thai cuisine. By spotlighting lesser-known ingredients like nam prik pao and galangal, the episode is sure to inspire both novice and experienced home cooks alike to explore the world of Thai cooking.