Thailand Cuisine

I spent the majority of the afternoon researching online for my upcoming wedding in Thailand, in Feb 2011-ish. I kept getting sidetracked and starting researching different Thai foods. I have an interesting situation, because I am severely allergic to peanuts, however the major part of Thai cuisine consists of peanuts in some form or another. This poses a major issue if I'm wanting to travel there, however I don't want it to stop me from experiencing a beautiful part of the world. So, I figured I would try to learn more about the dishes that I can eat, and be very familiar with them so when I travel there I won't be stuck eating rabbit food and rice.

I went to the T&T Supermarket today for the first time in my life to buy ingredients for a Seafood Thai Hot Pot recipe, found HERE. (Shopping at T & T is like taking a journey through parts of Asia where one finds fresh mangoes from the Philippines, crispy snacks from Japan, sauces from Hong Kong, noodles from Taiwan, spices from Thailand and a variety of flavours from China and other Asian countries)

It seemed only right that I would go to T&T for this recipe, rather than Safeway. I know, I know, most 'Vancouverites' will be shocked that I haven't ever been to this fantastic place (my friend Tiffany will be for sure) however, I always felt a bit intimidated and assumed I wouldn't be able to know what any of the food was. Little did I know I would be highly amused and extremely happy looking at all the strange foods and packaged goods.

I found a few things interesting enough to take photos of, while in the grocery store. Yes, I looked like a tourist, but I was having a ball!

1. Everything seemed a little over packaged. Ok rediculously over packaged. It makes me laugh looking at this. what a waste!

2. I love frogs as creatures/pets so it was sad to see them face up and gutted! Speaking of frogs, my pet frogs were accidentally murdered- however that's a whole different sad disgusting story. *tear* I'm sure some people think they are tasty, but I'm not sure I could bring myself to eat one? This could be added to my list of firsts to do, I suppose... *cringe*

3. I came accross something I had never seen nor heard of before. All you 'foodies' out there are not allowed to laugh or mock me: this fruit/spiky/vegetable bowling ball type food called Durian. Any idea how to cook or eat this thing?

To end this incredibly long blog about my first homemade Thai experience, I will post a photo of the flavourful, exotic sweet and spicy hot pot I made! It was amazing, and I definitely recommend this recipe!

BON APPETITE!