The Wanderer's Kitchen - Asia: The Wanderer's Kitchen

Cliffton Santiago

The Wanderer’s Kitchen - Asia

Copyright © 2024 by Cliffton Santiago

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To the incredible people of Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, and India, whose generosity and warmth have shaped who I am today. From Tokyo’s precision, Hong Kong’s fusion, Bangkok’s vibrant flavors, to India’s rich traditions, each experience has taught me the beauty of life’s simple pleasures. Thank you for opening your kitchens and hearts, inspiring this celebration of food and culture.

With deepest gratitude…

Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.

– Harriet Van Horne

Contents

I. WELCOME

1. Introduction

2. How to Use this Cookbook

3. Tips for International Cooking

II. JAPAN

4. Scenes of Japan

5. The Elegance and Precision of Japanese Cuisine

6. Exploring Japan: Temples, Tea, and Tempura

7. Miso Soup

8. Gyoza

9. Yakitori

10. Tempura

11. Chawanmushi

12. Sushi Rolls

13. Ramen

14. Udon Noodle Soup

15. Okonomiyaki

16. Tonkatsu

17. Soba Noodles

18. Nikujaga

19. Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream

III. HONG KONG

20. Scenes of Hong Kong

21. The Fusion of East and West in Hong Kong

22. Discovering Hong Kong: Dim Sum, Dragons, and Skyline

23. Wonton Soup

24. Siu Mai

25. Har Gow

26. Char Siu Bao

27. Char Siu

28. Phoenix Claws

29. Beef Chow Fun

30. Steam Fish with Ginger and Scallions

31. Stir-Fried Beef with Oyster Sauce

32. Congee

33. Bo Lo Bao

34. Dan Tat

35. Silk Stocking Tea

IV. THAILAND

36. Scenes of Thailand

37. The Vibrant and Spicy Flavors of Thailand

38. Unveiling Thailand: Temples, Tom Yum, and Tuk-Tuks

39. Som Tum

40. Tom Yum Soup

41. Larb

42. Tom Kha Gai

43. Gaeng Keow Wan

44. Gaeng Massaman

45. Pad Krapow Gai

46. Gaeng Daeng

47. Gaeng Panang

48. Pad See Ew

49. Khao Pad Sapparod

50. Khao Niew Mamuang

51. Cha Yen

V. INDIA

52. Scenes of India

53. The Tradition and Diversity of Indian Cuisine

54. Journeying through India: Curry, Colors, and Chaos

55. Samosas

56. Paneer Tikka

57. Tandoori Chicken

58. Momos

59. Chicken Tikki Masala

60. Palak Paneer

61. Biryani

62. Chana Masala

63. Rogan Josh

64. Aloo Gobi

65. Dal Makhani

66. Malai Kofta

67. Masoor Dal

68. Gulab Jamun

VI. CONCLUSION

69. Final Thoughts: Bringing the World to Your Kitchen

70. Measurement Conversions

71. Glossary of Terms

About the Author

Also by Cliffton Santiago

I

Welcome

1

Introduction

Welcome Note

Welcome to The Wanderer’s Kitchen - Recipes Collected from Around the World - Asia. This journey is one of wonder and delight, a culinary adventure that promises to bring the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Asia into your home. Whether you are reminiscing about past travels, sharing stories with loved ones, or dreaming of your next destination, may these recipes ignite your senses and inspire your culinary explorations.

My Journey in Food and Travel

As a passionate traveler and food enthusiast, my journey through Asia has been a voyage of unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. The diverse landscapes, the rich history and culture, and the incredible variety of ingredients have deeply influenced my understanding of food and life.

From the bustling spice markets of Delhi to the serene tea houses of Tokyo, each destination has offered a unique learning experience. The adventure of trying new things, of embracing the unfamiliar, has taught me not only about the vast differences between each culture but also about the subtle nuances within their cuisines. Each region, each dish, tells a story of its origins, shaped by environmental influences and historical contexts.

In India, the array of spices and the depth of flavors reflect a culinary tradition that is as diverse as its people. The vibrant colors and the complex aromas of each dish are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. In Hong Kong, the fusion of East and West is evident in every bite, where traditional techniques meet modern innovation, creating a culinary landscape that is both dynamic and deeply rooted in tradition.

Japan’s cuisine, with its emphasis on precision and simplicity, offers a different kind of beauty. The elegance of sushi-making, the comfort of a bowl of ramen, and the subtle flavors of miso soup each tell a story of meticulous craftsmanship and profound respect for ingredients. Thailand’s vibrant and spicy flavors, on the other hand, burst with life and excitement. The bustling street food stalls, with their sizzling woks and fragrant curries, reflect a culture that celebrates boldness and zest for life.

One of the most profound aspects of my travels has been the generosity and warmth of the locals. Everywhere I went, people were eager to share their delicacies, to invite me into their kitchens, and to sit down for a meal together. These moments, where the basics of life—food and nourishment—became events of connection and joy, are what I treasure the most. The smiles, the stories, and the shared experiences around the table have taught me that food is not just sustenance; it is a way to connect, to understand, and to celebrate life.

As you embark on this culinary journey through the pages of this book, I hope you find joy in the diversity of flavors, excitement in trying new recipes, and a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Asia. May these recipes bring back fond memories, create new stories to share, and inspire your next adventure.

Bon appétit and happy cooking!

2

How to Use this Cookbook

This cookbook is designed to be both a guide and an inspiration. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of it:

*** All Recipes Within Serve 4 Unless Otherwise Specified ***

Explore and Experiment

Each chapter is dedicated to a specific country, with recipes that showcase the unique flavors and culinary traditions of that region. Feel free to explore each chapter at your own pace. Start with a familiar dish or dive into something completely new. The joy of cooking from different cuisines lies in the adventure of experimentation.

Embrace the Stories

Every recipe in this book is accompanied by a personal story or a cultural insight. These anecdotes are not just about the food but about the people, places, and experiences that have shaped these dishes. Take a moment to read these stories—they will enhance your understanding and appreciation of each recipe.

Gather Your Ingredients

Asian cuisine often relies on specific ingredients that may be unfamiliar or hard to find in some regions. The Glossary of International Ingredients at the back of the book is a helpful resource. It provides descriptions and alternative names for key ingredients, making it easier to locate them in stores or online. Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients if needed—cooking is about creativity and adaptability.

Master the Basics

Before diving into the recipes, familiarize yourself with the basic techniques and essential tools used in Asian cooking. This includes mastering the use of a wok, understanding the importance of fresh herbs and spices, and learning the art of balancing flavors. The Tips for International Cooking section provides practical advice to help you get started.

Savor the Process

Cooking is not just about the end result; it’s about the journey. Take your time to enjoy the process of preparing each dish. Engage all your senses, savor the aromas, appreciate the vibrant colors, and listen to the sounds of ingredients coming together. Let cooking be a meditative and joyful experience.

Share the Experience

Food is meant to be shared. Invite friends and family to join you on this culinary adventure. Prepare a Thai feast, host a Japanese sushi night, or enjoy a cozy Indian dinner. Sharing these dishes with loved ones will create lasting memories and deepen your connection to the cultures they come from.

Make It Your Own

While this cookbook provides traditional recipes, feel free to make them your own. Adjust the level of spiciness, add your favorite ingredients, or present the dishes in your unique style. Cooking is a personal expression, and each dish can be a reflection of your taste and creativity.

Reflect and Connect

As you cook and explore these recipes, take a moment to reflect on the journey. Think about the rich histories, the diverse cultures, and the warmth and generosity of the people behind these dishes. Let this connection to different parts of Asia enrich your culinary experience and inspire your future travels.

Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey. I hope this cookbook not only fills your kitchen with delicious aromas and flavors but also brings you closer to the heart of Asia. Enjoy the adventure, and happy cooking!

3

Tips for International Cooking

Cooking international dishes is an exciting journey that opens up a world of flavors, techniques, and cultural experiences. As we dive into the culinary treasures of Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, and India, here are some essential tips to enhance your cooking adventure and bring these vibrant cuisines into your home.

Embrace the Essentials

Each of these countries has its unique set of essential ingredients and tools. For Japanese cuisine, stocking up on soy sauce, mirin, sake, miso, and dashi is crucial. A good-quality sushi mat and a sharp knife will also go a long way. For Hong Kong dishes, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and rice wine are staples. A wok is an indispensable tool for stir-frying. Thai cuisine relies heavily on fish