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Turmeric — ขมิ้น (khamin) — Curcuma longa

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Curcumin, a compound in turmeric, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. HuaHinServices offers insights into the culinary and medicinal uses of this vibrant spice. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a bright yellow spice that comes from the root of the Curcuma plant, which is a member of the ginger family. It is native to Southeast Asia and has been used in traditional medicine and cooking for thousands of years. Here are some key points about turmeric: Active Compound: The active compound in turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. However, the concentration of curcumin in turmeric is relatively low (around 3% by weight), so higher doses or specialized extracts are sometimes used for therapeutic purposes. Medicinal Uses : Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Curcumin has been studied for its ability to reduce inflammation in the body, which is believed to play a role in many chronic diseases. Antioxidant Ef...

Recipe: Vegan Tom Yum with Young Coconut, Sweet Potato, and Culantro

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Enjoy a delicious Vegan Tom Yum with young coconut at Hua Hin ’s top spots! This sweet, spicy, and sour soup is packed with fresh herbs , mushrooms, and tender coconut. A healthy, flavorful twist on a Thai classic. Perfect for vegans and food lovers alike!   Ingredients: 1 can (400ml) coconut milk 4 cups vegetable broth 1 young coconut, flesh cut into bite-sized pieces 1 large sweet potato , peeled and diced 2 stalks lemongrass , bruised and cut into 2-inch pieces 4-5 kaffir lime leaves , torn into pieces 2-3 red or green chili peppers , sliced (adjust to taste) 1 bunch of culantro , chopped 1 medium-sized onion, sliced 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon coconut sugar or agave nectar (optional, for sweetness) Salt to taste Thai Lime wedges for serving Instructions: Prepare Ingredients: Cut the young coconut flesh into bite-sized pieces. Peel and dice the sweet potato into small cubes. Bruise the lemongrass stalks by pressing down on them with...

Culantro - ผักชีฝรั่ง (phak chii faraang) - Eryngium foetidum

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Phak Chi Farang, or culantro, is a pungent herb that adds a unique flavor to Thai cuisine . A key ingredient in dishes like Tom Yum , it's widely available in markets in Hua Hin . Explore the flavors of HuaHinServices . In Thailand, culantro (Eryngium foetidum) is known as "phak chi farang" or "phak chi farang dong." It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is botanically related to cilantro (coriander), but it has a distinctly different flavor. Here are some key points about culantro in Thailand: Flavor and Use: Culantro has a robust, pungent flavor that is often described as a combination of cilantro and parsley but stronger. It is a popular herb in Thai cuisine, where it is used to add a distinctive taste to various dishes. Culinary Applications: Culantro is commonly used in Thai soups, stews, and curries, such as Tom Yum soup . It is also used in salads, marinades, and as a garnish for various Thai dishes. Cultural Significance: Thai cuisine is known for its bo...