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The dish of stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and your choice of meat or tofu all soaking in a delicious tamarind sauce is a staple at every Thai restaurant. Literally meaning “fried Thai,” pad Thai is loved by citizens, tourists, and people who have never set foot in the country. It’s turned into an international dish, but like everything else, it didn’t gain its fame overnight.

National Change

Thai restuarantThe country now known as Thailand experienced big changes in the 1930s when political power shifted to a new leader. Plaek Phibunsongkhram wanted to westernize the country. He changed the nation’s name from Siam to Thailand, and he hosted a cooking competition to come up with a new national dish. The goal was to separate the country from its Chinese influence, but even the new ruler couldn’t say no to the Chinese-inspired dish of stir-fried noodles. Pad Thai won the competition because while it had the makings of a Chinese dish, it also uniquely represented the spirit of Thailand.

A New Dish

Pad Thai was made to enhance all the flavors that make Thailand unique. It’s spicy, sweet, and salty, and it uses ingredients native to the country. There’s no denying the delicious taste, but that’s not the only reason it became steadily more popular. The people loved it because it was easy to make and affordable. Thai restaurants and food carts started selling the dish, and they also passed out recipes so families could make it at home. The government promoted the new national food, and it spread from the cities to rural areas. Now, Thai restaurants are found all over the world, and they all include pad Thai on the menu. It’s the quintessential dish of the nation.

 

If you’re lucky enough to take a trip to beautiful Thailand, sitting down to a locally made plate of pad Thai is a must. Thankfully, getting on a plane to Bangkok isn’t the only way to enjoy good Thai food. Thailand Cuisine in Kahului, HI, is known for being one of the best Thai restaurants on the island. They make all their Asian food following original recipes and only use fresh ingredients. Call them at (808) 873-0225 to ask about the restaurant’s hours. You’ll also get a glimpse of their menu online.  

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