Thailand’s Tom Yum Kung Inscribed on Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List
A Cultural Treasure Recognized
Thailand’s beloved dish, Tom Yum Kung, has been inscribed on the Unesco Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement was made during the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Asunción, Paraguay.
A Spicy and Sour Soup with a Rich History
Tom Yum Kung is a sour and spicy soup featuring herbs such as galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, typically paired with shrimp and mushrooms. This traditional dish has been passed down through generations, originating from the culinary wisdom and practices of riverside communities in central Thailand.
A Significant Achievement in Promoting Cultural Heritage
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra hailed the recognition as a significant achievement in promoting awareness of intangible cultural heritage and its role as a driver and guarantor of sustainable development. In a video message, she noted that Tom Yum Kung is a healthy dish that has been passed down through generations, contributing to food security, good health, and wellbeing.
Joining Thailand’s Other Cultural Treasures
Tom Yum Kung’s recognition joins Thailand’s other cultural treasures on the list, including the Khon masked dance, Thai massage, southern Thai dance-drama Nora, and the vibrant Songkran festival. The dish’s inclusion on the list is a testament to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and its importance in promoting social cohesion, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic development.
Thailand’s Commitment to Preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage
Paetongtarn emphasized that Thailand is fully committed to raising awareness of the importance of intangible cultural heritage at the local, national, and international levels. She expressed her gratitude to Unesco’s evaluation body, committee, and secretariat for their dedication and efforts in granting this recognition to Tom Yum Kung.
Conclusion
The recognition of Tom Yum Kung as an intangible cultural heritage is a significant milestone in promoting Thai cuisine and culture globally. This achievement demonstrates the importance of preserving and promoting traditional practices, which are not only essential to food security and good health but also contribute to sustainable development and social cohesion.
FAQs
- What is Tom Yum Kung?
Tom Yum Kung is a sour and spicy soup originating from central Thailand, featuring herbs such as galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, typically paired with shrimp and mushrooms. - What is the significance of Tom Yum Kung’s recognition on the Unesco list?
The recognition is a testament to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and its importance in promoting social cohesion, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic development. - What other cultural treasures has Thailand listed on Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage?
Thailand’s other cultural treasures on the list include the Khon masked dance, Thai massage, southern Thai dance-drama Nora, and the vibrant Songkran festival.