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One major problem facing would be Southeast Asian cooks is without doubt the large number of unfamiliar spices and herbs used, many of them not available outside the region. Exotic ingredients are especially confusing since many cookbooks refer to them by their local names or a non standard translation without photo reference. To complicate matters, wrong names and incorrect descriptions are not uncommon. Furthermore, for reasons unknown, many preparation methods are unnecessarily complicated.
I know of only ingredients and techniques that I grew up with and a lot has yet to be learned. By setting up this reference section, I hope those who know more will share their knowlege with me and those who know less could learn something.
I hope to slowly build up reference for the following topic:
- Ingredient Guide
A photo guide of herbs, spices, fruits, vegetables and other unusual Asian ingredients. - Sauces & Spice Mix
List of ingredients used in basic spice mix and popular sauces. - Cookbook list
List of good Asian cookbooks and brief reviews. - Where to shop
List of places to shop for Asian Ingredients around the World. What's availble and what's not. - Terms, techniques and tips
Anything that's good to know ... - List of Ingredients in various languages
If there's anything else you like to see in this section, please let me know!
To contribute, ask a question or correct the information listed, simply email me!
Thian
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