Follow the Recipe . . . at Least the First Time

Cooking is an art that is performed by each cook in his or her own way. There are many ways to make a salad, sauce, or soup, but some techniques change the recipe completely. Personal preference is another story, especially where the heat level of chilies is at issue. The recipes were developed with a Western palate in mind: spicy when traditional, but not “Thai spicy.” For instance, the green papaya salad, som tum, uses two green chilies. I have seen upwards of ten added on the streets of Thailand. Increase or decrease the amount according to your taste. It may be different than what you taste on the tropical island of Koh Samui, Thailand, but after all, who are you cooking for? Those at your table—cook for them!