Developing the Story of Thai Curry as an Icon of the ‘Thai Way of Life’

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Nuttharin Pariwongkhuntorn
Kanyapat Pattanapokinsakul
Krit Phanpanya
Sarunyikha Santsupakij

Abstract

Thai curry transcends mere cuisine; it is a profound reflection of the Thai way of life, embodying generations of warmth, sharing, and creative local wisdom. This heritage, characterized by distinct regional flavors and immense global recognition, positions Thai curry as a vital cultural identity and a form of national “soft power.” However, the dynamic forces of globalization and evolving consumer behaviors are transforming traditional recipes into modern fusion forms. This evolution presents both a challenge and an opportunity-encouraging Thailand to integrate Thai curry into creative cultural tourism, culinary storytelling, and sustainable destination competitiveness. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate and develop Thai curry narratives by tracing their cultural origins and historical evolution, forming a foundation for its effective preservation and promotion. Future studies should focus on systematic documentation and international-standard research to sustain authentic Thai curry traditions while supporting innovative adaptations that strengthen Thailand’s cultural identity in the global arena

Article Details

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Academic Article

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