Issue 33

Thai Hom Mali Rice is renowned around the globe for its quality. Horizon Thailand talks to restaurateurs to discover the secret of its success.

Blessed with its fertile soil and fine climate, Thailand is one of the world’s leading exporters of rice in the world. Thai Hom Mali Rice is especially popular.

According to figures from the Ministry of Commerce, the export value of Thai Hom Mali Rice from January to May 2015 to ASEAN, USA, Europe and Japan totalled 18.3 billion baht.

Thai Hom Mali Rice is equally appreciated by locals and foreign diners alike. It is a key staple in restaurants across the country and around the world, and has received numerous compliments from foodies.

Christopher Tan, managing director of Singapore-based ThaiSelect restaurant Nara Thai Singapore, says that Thai Hom Mali Rice is used in many of the restaurant’s signature dishes, such as Khao Phad Samunprai (Thai herb fried rice) and Khao Phad Sapparod (pineapple fried rice.)

According to Tan, the quality of the rice speaks for itself. “Nara Thai brands itself as an authentic Thai Restaurant. Of course it has to use Thai Hom Mali Rice. Also, it tastes better and is more fragrant and fluffy,” he says. “Customers have commented that our rice is not mushy – it is fluffy and you can feel each grain in your mouth. It is also fragrant and light.”

Rinee Sriraksayothin, of Thai-based Mango Tree restaurant, agrees. “At Mango Tree, we want to ensure that our customers have a dining experience with authentic Thai cuisine by using Thai ingredients,” she says. “We choose Thai Hom Mali Rice due to its fragrance and distinctive taste. Our signature dish featuring Thai Hom Mali Rice is Khao Ob Sapparod – baked rice with chicken in a pineapple boat.”

Supa Yanyonglert, owner of traditional Bangkok restaurant Tamnanthai, concurs about the popularity of Thai Hom Mali Rice. “Our foreign customers always ask about the rice served at the restaurant,” she says. “What they really like, apart from the quality, are the taste, texture and aroma of the rice. Thai Hom Mali Rice is easy to cook and has the perfect texture for making fried rice dishes too.”

Tamnanthai’s signature rice dishes include Khao Kluk Kapi – fried rice with shrimp paste and Khao Phad Nam Liab – fried rice with salted black olives.

For more information, visit www.narathai.com.sg, www.exquisinethai.com, www.tamnanthai.com

Words by: Manisa Phromsiripranee, Photos courtesy of Nara Thai Cuisine Singapore, Mango Tree on the River and Tamnanthai Restaurant