Southern Thai Sweet Corn Dessert (Buad Khao Pod): A Monk's Ordination Treat

Buad Khao Pod, a delightful Southern Thai sweet corn dessert, holds a special place in Thai culture, often gracing celebrations like monk ordinations. This creamy, subtly sweet treat offers a unique textural experience, a perfect balance between the soft, tender corn kernels and the delicate, almost ethereal texture of the coconut milk-based custard. Its gentle sweetness, reminiscent of summer cornfields, makes it a refreshing and irresistible dessert for all ages. The vibrant yellow hue of the dessert, punctuated by the occasional kernel, is as visually appealing as the taste is delightful.

Beyond its simple elegance, Buad Khao Pod boasts a surprisingly straightforward preparation method, perfect for both experienced cooks and enthusiastic beginners. This recipe unveils the secrets behind crafting this beloved Southern Thai delicacy, from selecting the freshest ingredients to achieving that signature creamy texture. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to create your own batch of Buad Khao Pod? Let's dive into the step-by-step process.

Tools Needed

  • Pot
  • Knife

Ingredients

  • Corn: 1 ear
  • Coconut milk: 250 ml
  • Coconut sugar
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Coconut Milk Base

  • Prepare a container and pour in the coconut milk.
  • Add coconut sugar (or water if substituting) and salt. Adjust sweetness to your preference. Stir and taste.
  • Heat the coconut milk mixture on medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Prepare a container and pour in the coconut milk.Add coconut sugar (or water if substituting) and salt. Adjust sweetness to your preference. Stir and taste.Heat the coconut milk mixture on medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Prepare the Coconut Milk Base

Step 2. Cook the Corn

  • Slice the corn kernels off the cob.
  • Add the corn kernels to the boiling coconut milk mixture.
  • Simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the corn is cooked and translucent. Check for doneness by scooping up some corn and tasting.
Slice the corn kernels off the cob.Add the corn kernels to the boiling coconut milk mixture.Simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the corn is cooked and translucent. Check for doneness by scooping up some corn and tasting.
Cook the Corn

Step 3. Simmer and Reduce

  • Once the corn is cooked, the liquid will reduce. Turn off the heat.
Once the corn is cooked, the liquid will reduce. Turn off the heat.
Simmer and Reduce

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve warm.
Serve warm.
Serve

Read more: Crispy Thai Corn Fritters: Easy Party Snack Recipe

Tips

  • You can use yellow or white corn.
  • If you don't have coconut sugar, you can use water instead. Palm sugar can be used, but the flavor won't be as good.
  • The final color will vary depending on the type of sugar used. Coconut sugar will result in a yellowish color, while granulated sugar will result in a whiter color.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. What makes Buad Khao Pod different from other corn desserts?

Buad Khao Pod's unique texture and subtle sweetness, achieved through the use of coconut milk and a gentle cooking process, set it apart. Many other corn desserts are richer or sweeter.

2. Can I substitute ingredients in the Buad Khao Pod recipe?

While coconut milk is crucial for the authentic flavor and texture, you can experiment with slightly less sugar if you prefer a less sweet dessert. Substituting corn may alter the texture.

3. Why is Buad Khao Pod associated with monk ordinations?

It's traditionally served during these ceremonies as a light, refreshing, and auspicious dessert, representing blessings and sweetness for the new monk's journey.


Making Buad Khao Pod is a rewarding experience, connecting you to the rich culinary heritage of Southern Thailand. This simple yet elegant dessert is sure to impress your friends and family with its unique flavor and texture. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this delicious culinary adventure!