Chilled Thai masterpiece Khao Chae remains a summer wonder

10 Sept 21:02 Key points summarised by AI

Khao Chae, a refreshing 'soaked rice' dish, is a cherished Thai summer specialty with historical roots tracing back to the Mon people and the Thai royal court during King Rama IV's reign.
It has evolved from a royal delicacy to a widely enjoyed dish, now experiencing a surge in popularity across various price points, from affordable street food to luxury sets in Michelin-starred restaurants, often packaged as high-end gifts.
The dish is a "symphony of flavors," featuring fragrant rice served with an array of intricately prepared side dishes like deep-fried shrimp paste balls (Luk Kapi), stuffed shallots (Hom Daeng Yat Sai), and sweetened shredded meats, complemented by beautifully carved fresh vegetables.
Proper consumption involves alternating small bites of side dishes with spoonfuls of fragrant rice, cleansing the palate with vegetables; its growing appeal is evident in significant sales increases for restaurants, highlighting its status as a "star dish" for summer.

Bright at Midnight: Conceptual echoes of Bas Jan Ader Arrive in Bangkok

Today 15:13 Key points summarised by AI

"Bright at Midnight" marks the first institutional exhibition in Asia of Dutch conceptual artist Bas Jan Ader, showcasing his enigmatic work at Bangkok Kunsthalle until January 10, 2027.
The exhibition delves into Ader's legacy, exploring themes of vulnerability and the ephemeral, made more poignant by his 1975 disappearance at sea during an art project.
It encourages viewers to engage with art beyond its material form, featuring key pieces like "Thoughts unsaid, Then forgotten," "Light vulnerable objects threatened by eight cement bricks," and the haunting film "Launch of the Ocean Wave."
A highlight is the planned live transformation of "Light vulnerable objects threatened by eight cement bricks" in 2026, where ropes will be cut, creating a new layer of art from the destructive impact.
The exhibition challenges conventional art consumption, advocating for a deeper appreciation of conceptual and research-driven artistic practices over mere fascination with art as an asset class.