Homali as basis of the culture

In a land that loves food, rice likely tops the list in terms of both popularity and importance. It features in each of the day's three meals and all the other ingredients in Thai dishes are referred to as Ghap Khao, or 'things eaten with rice'. Khao homali, or jasmine rice, is the tastiest version found in the Thai Kingdom.

Grown only in Thailand, this fragrant, long grain rice is translucent when uncooked but quickly turns white and fluffy once it's ready to eat, giving off a delicate aroma at the same time.

That's the gourmet's take on this grain, which can also be red or purple once it arrives at the table. All that said, rice is more than just a foodstuff in Thailand; it is also part of the country's rich culture and tradition.

Aside from the fact that it's widely grown in the northeast of the Kingdom, rich also figures prominently when it comes to Thai expressions and is central to offerings made at the country's temples during holidays and festivals.