Khanom kho facts for kids
Khanom kho (Thai: ขนมโค, pronounced [kʰā.nǒm kʰōː]) is a yummy traditional Thai dessert from the southern part of Thailand. People often make it for special celebrations. It's a bit like another Thai dessert called khanom tom, which is popular in central Thailand.
Khanom kho used to be only white. But now, people add natural colors to make it look even prettier! For example, blue comes from butterfly pea flowers, green from pandan leaves, and yellow from pumpkin.
There are two main kinds of Khanom kho. One is a dry version. The other is called khanom kho kathi (ขนมโคกะทิ), which has a creamy coconut milk topping.
A Sweet History
Southern Thailand is a peninsula, meaning it's surrounded by water on three sides. In the past, this area was a very busy trading place. Traders from places like China, India, Arab countries, and even Rome would come here.
These traders brought not only goods but also their ideas and beliefs. Different religions, like Brahmin-Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, mixed with local traditions. This blend of cultures led to many unique customs, including special foods like Khanom kho.
Beliefs Behind the Dessert
Khanom kho is a very old dessert from Southern Thailand. In the Malayu language spoken there, it's sometimes called "Tu Pong Nen." This dessert has been passed down through many generations.
Local people believe that Khanom kho is a sacred or special food. It is often made for important ceremonies and worship. Khanom kho kathi is similar to laddu (or ladoo), a sweet dessert from India. Laddu is often used to worship the god Ganesha. Khanom kho uses local ingredients but shares a similar special meaning.
What's Inside Khanom Kho?
Making khanom kho kathi involves three main parts:
- Flour
- Filling (made from coconut shavings)
- Creamy coconut milk (for the topping)
The main ingredients you'll need are glutinous rice flour, palm sugar, coconut milk, and coconut shavings.
To make the dessert colorful, people mix the glutinous rice flour with natural juices. For example, pandan juice gives a green color, butterfly pea flowers make it blue, and pumpkin can make it yellow. Sometimes, food coloring is used too.
