Khao Mok Gai

Spice Level

Description

Khao Mok Gai is the Thai version of biryani, a fragrant spiced rice cooked with chicken. The rice is colored with turmeric and flavored with cardamom, cumin, cinnamon and cloves. The chicken is marinated in a spice and yogurt mixture before being cooked with the rice. The dish is served with a sweet-sour cucumber and shallot sauce, along with a clear spiced broth. It is a complete and fragrant dish, very popular in southern Thailand.

History & Origin

Khao Mok Gai was introduced to Thailand by Indian and Persian Muslim merchants who traded in the south. The dish adapted to Thai tastes over centuries, becoming lighter and less oily than the original biryani. It is particularly popular in southern provinces with large Muslim populations, such as Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat.

Main Ingredients

• Cardamom
• Cucumber
• Turmeric
• Shallots
• Spices
• Chicken
• Riz jasmin
• Fish sauce