Travellers never miss a chance to talk about their memories related with its pristine beaches, flavoursome food, exhilirating adventure, affable hospitality, picturesque temples and crazy shopping but for me Kae-Sa-Luk is the first thing that comes in my mind, at the mention of Thailand. I love the Kingdom of Thailand for many reasons but my favorite and fondest memories are related to its people and food art. Nothing comes close to the beautiful smiles of the people there but I also love its beautiful art of fruits and vegetables carving. The floral designs made of Thai fruits and vegetables are above and beyond anything I’ve seen at any dining table in the world.
Here, I would like to quote Andy Warhol, “Art is anything you can get away with.” Kae Sa Luk from Thailand is unmissable. You will admire it until you will learn it. This edible arrangement, visually inspiring, and traditional art, is the first thing that I had learned about Thailand at a media conference in Delhi, even before my first real visit to the ‘Land of Smiles’.
Creating Kae-Sa-Luk magic in my Home
Thanks to #BLOGYOURTHAILAND contest, I tried my hands at this art after many days. It was fun to create something tangible, authentic and real, without even travelling there. Kae Sa Luk was in my mind but I did not have the right carving knifes. However, this did not dampen my spirits. I went ahead with the regular ones. I am not a pro in it, so kindly spare me the detailings. I failed in carving the watermelon, but I succeeded in creating pretty flowers with onion, potato, cucumber, tomato and zucchini.
Read : TASTES of THAI – Food is one reason for which I love going back to Thailand again and again
Also Read : 10 highlights of my trip to Chiang Mai- “Rose of the North Thailand
What is Kae sa Luk?
An original form of Thai art, which converts fruits, vegetables into stunning works of art. It is done in many countries but when Thais do it, it’s different.
Kae-Sa-Luk or fruit & vegetables carving is a centuries-old Thai tradition. The origin of the art takes us back to the flourishing court days of King Phra Ruang. Ever since, Thais have been known to excel in floral motifs. These edible masterpieces became popular because the meals prepared in the royal court were expected to please both the palate and the eye. Gradually, it became a part of Thai history. The artistry is taught from one generation to the next.
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How did I discover Kae Sa Luk?
Around five years ago, I had attended a Thailand promotional event in my city. In this room full of many Thai delegatories and media persons, I had made friends with a very pretty and talented Thai lady. She was expert in creating some spectacular artworks on fruits and vegetables. I remember walking to table and requesting her to give me a few tips. The lady was extremely patient with me. She took me through the basics of carving, taught me simple designs and narrated some of the most interesting stories of Thaland.
I was so intrigued that I planned my first Thailand trip that very year. The country never fails to inspire me. If you ask me, where would I like to go once the pandemic ends, I would say THAILAND. I love its vibes. You may read more about Bangkok, Koh Chang, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Chanthaburi and Rayong here.
Also sharing my CD art portraying my love for Thailand. Guess the place!!
#AmazingThailand #TATNewDelhi #ResetinThailand
I lived in Thailand and saw them do this often but had no idea it had a name! So fun. Now I want to try it in our home! Thanks for the reminder!
Wow I had never heard of Kae-Sa-Luk, even though I have seen those fruits and vegetables carvings and art. It’s so good to know that it has a name and I can try it at home too. Also, it is fascinating to read that this is part of the culture that has been passed on generations. Thailand is truly a beautiful country with so much of culture and traditions.
This looks so therapeutic! I love the carving you did on the tomato. You were able to definitely channel your engineer side on this art! Kudos!
I have tried my hand at Japanese vegetable carving – what seems quite similar, but had no idea, that it is an old tradition in Thailand too. Kae-Sa-Luk – I have to remember that. In Japanese it is called Mukimono. It would be such a fun to take a class in Thailand, wouldn`t it?
I must sadly admit that I don’t have memories of Kae-Sa-Luk food art from our visit to Thailand. Although I do remember that our food plates were often well presented and photographed great! I love how flowers can be created from so many different veggies! When we return to Thailand I will be watching for some great Kae-Sa-Luk.
Wow! This is really nice. I would love to learn Kae sa Luk. Thank you for sharing the video. Will try to follow this next time.
I have seen this art many times at exhibitions. Kudos for learning it and sharing it. This is such a pleasurable way to eat your veggies and fruits. And what could be better than eat it in the country from where it originates.
Your creativity and artistry comes shining through. I love seeing interesting presentation with my food.
I love this idea! I’ve seen this before, but all of the ones I’ve seen in person look SO complicated. These actually look doable. I need to try this at our next meal!