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A city famed for its bustling street food stalls, rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary diversity, Bangkok holds within its heart a delicacy that whispers royal courts, summer afternoons and centuries old traditions. Khao chae, a refreshing and aromatic culinary experience that is more than just a meal, this Thai delicacy is designed to cool the body and please the senses during the sweltering summer months in Thailand. A dish that represents elegance and balance, khao chae is rooted in the Mon origins and refined by the Thai royalty during the Rattanakosin era. Chilled and delicately fragrant, khao chae is served alongside an array of meticulously crafted side dishes, that range from sweet and savoury delicacies like shallots, shredded beef, crispy fried shrimp and candied vegetables. With each element of the meal prepared meticulously with the utmost care, the contrast, textures and flavours offered are nothing short of artful.
For those who are visiting Bangkok this season, seeking out the best khao chae is not just a culinary adventure, but a journey through time, culture, and refinement. Whether served in a heritage restaurant, a royal cafe or a hidden local gem in the city, khao chae is a glimpse into Thailand’s sophisticated palate.
What is khao chae?
A royal Thai summer dish that holds within itself centuries of charm, khao che literally means ‘rice soaked in water’. Even though the name of this Thai dish is deceptively simple, it masks an elaborate and meticulously prepared dish that originated from the Mon people and was later adopted and refined by the Thai royal court during the Rattanakosin era.
Presently regarded as a luxurious summer treat, khao chae is traditionally consumed during the hottest months of the year, especially around the time of Songkran or the Thai New Year.
What makes khao chae special?
At its very heart, khao chae is a dish prepared from steamed rice that is soaked in cool and aromatic jasmine scented water, often chilled with ice. Primarily known for accompanying other side dishes, which are intricately prepared, labour intensive and extremely flavourful, khao chae helps in creating a contrast between the cold, fragrant rice, warm and often sweet and savoury accompaniments, which is what makes this dish so unique.
Key components of khao chae
The composition of the dish includes four elements mainly, that ranges from par boiled rice which is later steamed, water infused with the fragrance of jasmine flowers, ice cubes and a variety of side dishes.
The selection of side dishes vary from deep fried balls of kapi, shredded pork, beef or fish, grilled fish, stir fried sweet preserved radish, stuffed shallots and so on.
Best places to get khao chae in Bangkok
On your next trip to Bangkok, as you wander through the vibrant streets, take a pause from the heat and treat yourself to the royal dish from any of these top places to get khao chae in Bangkok
1. The Siam Tea Room, Asiatique The Riverfront
The Siam Tea Room is a riverside venue in Bangkok serving Khao Chae Phraya, which is available as a set as well as in a la carte. A popular spot in the city that offers set menus which include welcome drinks, Ma Hor as an appetiser, and 12 selections of dishes that range from sweet and savoury, guests here also have the option to enjoy dishes as per their own preferences.
2. JW Marriott Bangkok
The Bangkok Baking Company (BBCO) which is JW Marriott Bangkok’s very known coffee house is a well known spot in the city serving khao chae along with a whole lot of delicious continents for you to enjoy. With the candle scented steamed Jasmine rice soaked in water to other delicious delicacies such as fried salted egg yolk, shallot stuffed fish, caramelised pickled turnips and much more, you are definitely in for a treat during your time here.
3. Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant
A popular place to get khao chae in Bangkok, this dish served at Jim Thopmson is elegant and boasts of a serene ambience. They offer you a set that includes seven side dishes, with the meal ending on a sweet note with the delightful Mango Sticky Rice, the khao chae served here is definitely worth the try.
4. InterContinental Bangkok
A balcony lounge that serves this chilled Thai delicacy throughout the summer season in Bangkok, InterContinental Bangkok serves you khao chae the classic way. With quintessential condiments that include stuffed shallots with fish, shredded sweetened pork and deep fried shrimp balls, the khao chae served here is great!