Songkran is one of the biggest celebrations in Thailand, the traditional New Year event honored every April. This water-filled holiday is marked by rousing public water fights, ritual cleansing, and the throwing and sprinkling of water. During Songkran, many people turn to refreshing foods as a way to beat the heat and keep the party going. Khao Chae is one traditional dish often enjoyed at Songkran, a refreshing, fragrant meal that is both extremely versatile and perfectly tasty. At International Fresh Market, our Asian grocery store has everything you need to make this holiday dish at home.
What Is Khao Chae?
Khao Chae is chilled rice served in jasmine-scented water. The name literally translates to “rice soaked in water.” It is often made during hot months, and is especially popular during Songkran. It’s unique combination of fragrance and cooling texture makes it perfect for very warm days. While it is commonly served with small savory sides like pickled vegetables, it is equally delicious when enjoyed by itself. Khao Chae is also great for children and those who can’t tolerate spice due to its mild flavor and easy palatability.
Key Ingredients of this Thai Dish
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make Khao Chae. Cooked jasmine rice, completely cooled, jasmine or some sort of floral-infused water, and ice for serving are the primary ingredients. When it comes to sides, let your imagination run wild.
You can opt for traditional sides like sweetened, shredded pork or fish, stuffed shallots, or fried shrimp paste balls, or you can go simple with some fresh vegetables or pickled onions. Khao Chae is all about the balance of delicate, refreshing flavors, so feel free to taste test along the way and adjust to your liking.
How to Prepare Khao Chae
Khao Chae can be made in just under an hour. First, cook jasmine rice until tender. Allow it to fully cool as you prepare floral water, using either jasmine essence or steeped flowers. Chill the water thoroughly in the refrigerator. Rinse the rice lightly to remove excess starch. Serve the rice in the cold, fragrant water, adding ice cubes just before passing the bowls out.
You can plate the Khao Chae with sides for contrast or place small sprigs of fresh herbs or flowers on top. Presentation is key with Khao Chae. Think of ways to make the plates (and your table) light, elegant, and refreshing. Placing fresh flowers around the table will enhance the mood. Even if the weather is steamy, your meal can be cool and soothing.
Why It’s Perfect for Spring
Khao Chae is perfect for spring, especially if you’re welcoming friends and want to make a recipe that will please a crowd. It’s light yet satisfying, and reflects seasonal eating in Thai culture. Since it can be customized or enhanced with a variety of sides, it is ideal for hosting or even introducing traditional cuisine to a crowd.
Visit Our Asian Grocery Store for Thai Cooking Staples
Cultural, seasonal, and deeply refreshing, Khao Chae is perfect for the incoming warm weather. This Songkran, try something new and discover a true taste of Thailand. Khao Chae is a delicious dish that is sure to please your friends and family. At International Fresh Market, we have all the authentic Asian ingredients you need to make Khao Chae and every other global recipe on your list. Celebrate spring through global cuisine with us, and visit our authentic Asian grocery store for high-quality springtime staples.
If you liked this article, check out this one about fresh herbs and spices for spring.
