| This is a northern representative of the large and varied sub-cuisine of nam phrik, or chili sauces served as dips for fresh vegetables, meats, or fish. Nam phrik are at the very center of Thailand's culinary tradition, but are probably the category of Thai foods that visitors learn to love last. This nam phrik num is made from long green eggplants (makhuea yao) that have been grilled until soft and then pounded with chilies, fermented fish (plaa raa) and vegetables seasonings. It is at its best when eaten with the crisp-fried pork rind (khaeb muu). |