Discover the Sweet Side of Thai Cuisine: Indulge in Delicious Chocolate Creations!

I have a sweet tooth. No coffee or smoking for me, but chocolate? Yes, please!

During my time in several Asian countries, I mostly enjoyed international brands like Cadbury. But in Thailand, the scene is different. Here, craft chocolate bars are everywhere. There’s a growing love for artisanal products made right at home.

“Thailand is a nation that truly loves food and flavor,” explains Daniel Bucher, the founder of Bangkok’s Pridi Cacaofevier. “When a new taste pops up, people dive deep to explore it. Recently, chocolate took the spotlight, leading to a lively chocolate scene.”

Since 2018, places like Kad Kokoa have changed Bangkok’s chocolate game. Their Sathon cafe is a delightful spot, offering a range of single-origin chocolates. Each bar tells a story about its region. The Chiang Mai bar, with honey and floral notes, is a favorite, alongside the richer Chumphon bar that has hints of brownie and caramel.

“We believe in minimal intervention. Our bars use just cacao and organic sugar to let the beans shine,” shares Nuttaya Junhasavasdikul, co-founder of Kad Kokoa. “Sustainability is at the heart of what we do, helping us stand out globally.”

In Chiang Mai, Siamaya Chocolate excels in creating unique combinations. “Most cacao in Thailand stems from a special variety created by researchers years ago,” says Neil Ransom, founder of Siamaya. “Our chocolate is crafted with local flavors, making it fruitier and more aromatic, without relying heavily on vanilla to cover flaws.”

Although bold single-origin bars are popular, Thai chocolate truly stands out with its creative flavors. Think Tom Yum Dark Chocolate or Durian Milk Chocolate. Ransom notes, “Thailand produces some of the best fruits and spices. Including these in chocolate allows us to celebrate our local culture and offer something unique to both locals and visitors.”

Pridi Cacaofevier also surprises with its flavors, like the PlaPlaPla bar, featuring caramel made with organic fish sauce—a twist on sweet and salty.

They source beans from northern farmers and include local ingredients. Strawberries from Chiang Dao, lime skin from Nan, and northern Thai pepper come from local communities in Chiang Rai.

Even though Thai chocolate isn’t as famous as Swiss or Belgian options, chocolatiers are pushing for it. Bucher co-founded the Thailand Association for Cacao and Chocolate (TACCO) to promote Thai chocolate globally. “We want to show the world the potential of Thai cacao and the passionate makers behind it,” he says.

A recent survey by the Fine Chocolate Industry Association found that the craft chocolate market is booming, with increased interest in unique flavors and sustainable practices. As more people discover these delightful bars, Thailand is likely to emerge as a notable player in the global chocolate scene.

In a world full of chocolate, Thai artisans are carving their niche, one delicious bar at a time.



Source link