Pandanus amaryllifolius - pandan or pandanus leaves - ใบเตย (Bai Toey)

Pandanus amaryllifolius, known as "Bai Toey" in Thai, is a plant native to Southeast Asia. 

Here is some information about Bai Toey in Thailand:

1.  Culinary Use: 

   -  Flavor and Aroma:  Pandanus leaves are known for their sweet and fragrant aroma. They have a unique flavor that is often described as floral, nutty, and reminiscent of vanilla.

   -  Cuisine:  The leaves are commonly used in Thai cuisine to flavor various dishes, especially desserts, snacks, and certain savory dishes. They are also used to add aroma to rice.

And we use it in our welcome drink Cold drink with pandan, lemongrass, butterfly pea, ginger and honey

Pandan Drink: A Simple Recipe with Big Health Benefits

2.  Thai Desserts: 

   -  Pandan Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Bai Toey):  Pandanus leaves are often used to flavor sticky rice, creating a popular Thai dessert. The green color of the rice is obtained from the natural pigments in the Pandanus leaves.

Pandan-Infused Delights - Authentic Thai Sweets Made Easy

3.  Natural Coloring: 

   -  Green Coloring:  In addition to flavor, the leaves are used to add a natural green color to certain dishes, drinks, and desserts.

4.  Medicinal Uses: 

   -  Traditional Medicine:  In traditional Thai medicine, Pandanus leaves are believed to have various health benefits, including being a natural cooling agent. They are sometimes used for their purported anti-inflammatory properties.

Health Benefits of Pandanus Leaves (ใบเตย or Bai Toey): A Natural Wellness Powerhouse

5.  Cultural Significance: 

   -  Ceremonial Uses:  Pandanus leaves may be used in various cultural and religious ceremonies in Thailand.

6.  Growing Pandanus Plants: 

   -  Cultivation:  Pandanus plants are relatively easy to cultivate. They thrive in tropical climates and are often grown in home gardens. The plant is characterized by its long, spiky leaves.

7.  Alternative Names: 

   -  Local Names:  Apart from "Bai Toey," Pandanus leaves may also be known by other local names in different regions of Thailand.

8.  Commercial Products: 

   -  Pandan Flavored Products:  In addition to fresh leaves, pandanus flavor is used in various commercially available food products, including pandan-flavored extracts, syrups, and desserts.

Pandanus leaves are an integral part of Thai culinary and cultural heritage, contributing a distinct flavor and aroma to the country's diverse cuisine.

🌱 Fresh herbs from our garden make every dish special! We're growing basil, lemongrass, mint and more at our little green corner in Hua Hin. Nature's flavors right at your fingertips. 🌿🍃

Check out our collection of culinary and medicinal plants that thrive in Thailand's climate. Perfect for home cooks and gardening enthusiasts alike!

Want to start your own herb garden? Visit our blog for plant care tips and uses for each variety: https://sites.google.com/view/huahinservices/our-garden/herbs-and-spices