KWAI LUI: THE SWEET AND THE BUFFALO

Heading 2: The Sweet and the Buffalo – Khao Nieo Kwai Lui

Khao Nieo Kwai Lui, which literally means “the sticky rice overrun by a buffalo,” is a unique Thai traditional dessert that has gained popularity in recent years. This sweet treat is made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and a special custard made from fresh palm sugar. What sets Khao Nieo Kwai Lui apart from the general Khao Nieo Moon is its thick, full-flavored toppings and the fragrant palm sugar used.

The story behind the name of this dessert is quite interesting. It all started when a farm owner in Sanburi District, Chainat province, had to cook a dessert for his friends during the rice harvest. Without any recipe on hand, he decided to use what he had available on the farm. The result was a delicious and unique sweet treat with a topping that resembled the mud in the rice fields that are overrun by the buffalo. And so, Khao Nieo Kwai Lui got its name.

Heading 3: The Unique Sticky Rice

The sticky rice used in Khao Nieo Kwai Lui is of utmost importance. It is known for its chewy texture and slightly sweet taste. The rice is soaked overnight and then steamed until it becomes soft and sticky. This process allows the rice to retain its natural flavors and textures, making it the perfect base for the dessert.

Heading 3: The Thick Messy Topping

The topping of Khao Nieo Kwai Lui is what truly makes it unique. It is a custard made from fresh palm sugar, steamed mung bean, and taro. The mung bean and taro are braised with coconut milk, adding a creamy and rich flavor to the topping. The local palm sugar, called Namtan Huay Krod, is used to sweeten the topping. This palm sugar is widely available in the area and has a distinct aroma and flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dessert.

The thick and messy texture of the topping is reminiscent of the mud in the rice fields that are overrun by the buffalo. It adds a playful and rustic element to the dessert, making it visually appealing and unique.

Heading 2: Where to Find Khao Nieo Kwai Lui

If you’re interested in trying Khao Nieo Kwai Lui, you can find it at Talat Yon Yook Muang San, also known as the retro market of Sanburi. This marketplace is located at Phraya Preak Temple and offers a wide variety of local delicacies. Apart from Khao Nieo Kwai Lui, you can also indulge in century-old Kanom Chine, Pad Thai Ban Hua Koh, spicy jackfruit salad, fish cake, herbal drinks, and more.

Heading 3: How to Get There

To reach Sanburi and the retro market, you can take Highway 340 from Bangkok. The journey is approximately 110 miles and can be easily accessible by car or public transportation. If you prefer to call ahead and ensure the availability of Khao Nieo Kwai Lui, you can contact the Wat Mahathat Community at 06-4157-9367 or 09-8780-1926.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Khao Nieo Kwai Lui is a unique Thai traditional dessert that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The sticky rice provides a chewy base, while the thick and messy topping made from fresh palm sugar, mung bean, and taro adds a creamy and rich element. The fragrant palm sugar and local ingredients used in this dessert make it stand out from the general Khao Nieo Moon. If you find yourself in Sanburi, be sure to visit the retro market and indulge in this delicious and one-of-a-kind sweet treat.

Subscribe, follow travelbloggerindonesia.com