BANGKOK: It is a royal tradition that has proved bountiful through the ages and one that Thailand’s fruit carvers are determined to keep alive — even as young people peel away from the unique art form.
From beetroots carved into roses to fruity floats made from papayas and melons, the most important fruit carving competition in Thailand took place in Bangkok Friday.
But for competitor Piyanat Thiwato, carving is about more than just winning.
“Carving can improve our mind because it requires concentration and enhances our imagination, it’s a way to relax,” he said.
The tradition has been traced back to Thailand’s royal Sukhothai dynasty, in the 14th century.
“The art of food carving started hundreds years ago. Thailand is rich with arts and crafts. It’s like a very beautiful treasure that we have,” said Araya Arunanondchai, the event’s organizer.
“In the old days, it was done in the royal palaces for the royal family,” she added.
Dozens of Thai artists competed in the famous fruit and vegetable carving competition, which was organized in honor of Queen Sirikit, who turns 85 on August 12.
More than 20 teams carved anything from owls to elephants or intricate Thai designs onto fruits including taros, melons, and papaya.
Fruit carving is still popular as an offering in temples or as a decoration for weddings. Fine arts students can still choose to learn it at university, as they would take painting lessons. But the tradition is fading away.
“Not so many young people are interested in it or the ones who studied it in art schools cannot make a living out of it,” Manirat Svastiwat na Ayutthaya, food carving expert said.
Fruit carving, a meticulous art in Thailand
Fruit carving, a meticulous art in Thailand
Where We Are Going Today: Cortaco – Mexican dish in Riyadh
- Cortaco is a homey hole in the wall that almost gives you a shock when you walk in
We’re always looking for the next best Mexican spot to obsess over because, let’s face it, no one can deny the deliciousness of a simple, well-made taco — and we think we’ve finally found it.
Cortaco is a homey hole in the wall that almost gives you a shock when you walk in.
With its ambiguous exterior, featuring a bar window for outdoor seating, you’d have no clue you were walking into your grandmother’s home. The interior is adorned with vintage decorative pillows, lace and floral curtains, soft lighting, and antique tiles, making every corner of the place an interesting spot to observe.
Their menu is concise but packed with flavor. After we were served complimentary chips with guacamole and salsa, we started with their signature fries, which were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft within, and the “Frideds,” cauliflower pieces fried with green peppers and jalapeno.
Their tacos are the main star of the show, however. We opted for their signature birria tacos, which are served with lettuce, tomato, cabbage, and jalapeno on the side. The birria sauce is thicker than we’ve found at other restaurants — a sign it’s made right.
Their quesadillas are also a great choice, filled with cheese, onions, corn, and grilled peppers. A great thing about Cortaco is that they’re willing to substitute any dish with a vegetarian option, so if you’re plant-based or looking for a healthier option, any meat can be replaced with cauliflower or vegetables.
Another choice for mains is their burrito, which comes in either chicken or beef. The tortilla bread is grilled on the outside, which gives it a crispier texture and smokier flavor.
Although not a Mexican dish, they also serve chicken and beef Philly cheese sandwiches.
There’s a refreshing selection of soft drinks from their bodega-style fridge, as well as an interesting range of cocktails. We recommend the Jamaica, a blend of hibiscus tea, rose, apple, and berries.
Overall, the ambience and quality of food really sold us — not to mention the affordability. It’s going to be our spot this winter to have a cozy catch-up with friends over comfort food.
