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Authentic Thai Cooking Classes & The Taste of Thailand Culinary Tours
Shop Kitchen Tools & Essential Ingredients
"My Trusted Amazon Kitchen Tools & Essential Ingredients"
After decades in the kitchen—teaching thousands of students and cooking every meal for my family—I’ve narrowed down the only tools and ingredients worth your money. No trendy gimmicks, just time-tested workhorses that deliver professional results.
Why Trust Me?
✓ Cooking instructor since [2003]
✓ Tested 300+ tools (90% ended up donated!)
✓ Only recommend what I personally repurchase
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These are genuine recommendations—tools I’ve used for years in my cooking classes.
Thank you for supporting my work!)
🏆 Hall of Fame: My Decade-Proof Tools
The 40 Knife That Out performs 200 Blades
[Sunnecko Chef’s Knife 8"]
(Sunnecko Chef Knife Sharp Santoku 7"
(Get your 7" Chef knife here)
→ Why it’s my #1: Stays sharp for almost a full year with basic honing, perfectly balanced for small hands (no wrist fatigue during all-day classes).
→ Pro tip: They come with the knife guard to protect the edge. Take good care of the knife usually sharpening once or twice a year. Cleaned and dry after used every time.
The Unbreakable Pan I’ve Replaced Just Once in 20 Years (I got 10 of them!)
[Cast Iron wok Skillet] Used for about 15 years now they all still look like new
Get your cast iron wok here
→ My longevity secret: Season it with [This Flax seed oil) to (creates a bulletproof finish). I usually like to season it before and after using.
→ Uses: From searing steaks or chicken- to stir fry even use it to make curry sauce.
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
My Everyday Stir-Fry Workhorse
"The Nonstick Wok I’ve Used daily for class & most of my cooking video since late 2024 (And Still Like New)"
[Dotclad Nonstick Wok]
→ My secret: Hexagonal dot-matrix coating—no flaking, even with metal utensils.
→ Uses: Stir-fries, omelets, and deglazing sauces without a scratch.
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
"The Indestructible Pot I’ve Used for a Decade (And Still Cooks Like Day One)"
[Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven]
→ My secret: The thick enamel coating prevents rust—no seasoning needed!
→ Uses: From no-stir risottos to crusty artisan bread—even doubles as a serving dish.
I used almost everyday for a pot of curry, coconut soup.
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
"My Reliable Angel Juicer – The Heavy-Duty Workhorse for 10+ Years!" (Still work like new)
[Angel Juicer] Grab your juicer here
→ Why I swear by it: Crushes tough greens (kale, wheat grass) AND soft fruits effortlessly
→ Secret weapon: Makes ultra-smooth curry paste without clogging
→ Lifesaver feature: 3-piece design cleans in 60 seconds – no scrubbing!
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Pro Tip:
For pastes, alternate hard ingredients (ginger, lemongrass) with soft ones (garlic, shallots) to push everything through cleanly!
"My Vitamix – The Indestructible Powerhouse That Outlasted 3-5 Cheap Blenders!"
[Vitamix 5200] Get your Vitamix here
→ Why it’s worth every penny: Blends rock-hard frozen fruit into silky smoothies in 30 seconds for my family super food smoothies bowl and yes I used this to
make fresh coconut milk sometimes too!
→ My secret hack: Makes restaurant-quality nut butters and hot soups (just blend 6 mins!)
→ Battle-tested: Survived about 15 years of daily teaching classes and my hectic home kitchen ( I replace the blender cups as the original 2 times in the last 15 years)
Now I replaced with stainless steel blender cup so its will last even longer, here is the stainless steel replacement.
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Pro Tip:
Always add liquid first.
"Heirloom-Quality Kitchen Tools – Cook Now, Pass Down Later"
Lodge 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder – Durable & Versatile!
Upgrade your cooking with the Lodge 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, featuring a convenient red silicone hot handle holder for safe, comfortable grip. Perfect for searing, frying, baking, and even campfire cooking, this pre-seasoned skillet delivers superior heat retention and even cooking. The silicone handle cover protects hands from burns, while the rust-resistant cast iron ensures long-lasting performance.
Ideal for stovetop, oven, or grill use—this skillet is a must-have for home chefs who love flawless steaks, crispy cornbread, and more!
Get yours today and cook with confidence!
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Aroma ARC-914S Rice Cooker – Perfect Rice, Zero Effort
8-cup (cooked) capacity • One-touch operation • Cool-touch exterior • Non-stick pot • Keep-warm function • Steaming tray included
✅ Foolproof – Just add rice & water!
✅ Compact – Fits anywhere (dorms, RVs, tiny kitchens)
✅ Versatile – Cooks rice, steams veggies & more
No more soggy or burnt rice—just fluffy perfection every time!
(Ideal for students, busy pros & small families.)
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Order yours today and enjoy restaurant-quality rice at home!
Aceself Non-Stick 12" Pan – Love Effortless Cooking & Easy Cleanup!
Tired of scrubbing stuck-on food or dealing with flaky coatings? The Aceself Non-Stick Pan is your kitchen superhero! 🦸♂️✨ Designed for seamless flipping, even heating, oil and zero-oil cooking, this pan makes breakfasts, stir-fries, and delicate dishes a breeze.
🔥 Why You’ll Love It:
✅ Ultra-Durable Coating – PFOA-free ceramic non-stick that lasts (no chipping!).
✅ Even Heat Distribution – No more burnt spots, just perfect browning every time.
✅ Healthy Cooking – Use less oil without sacrificing flavor.
✅ Easy Cleanup – A quick wipe is all it needs (dishwasher-safe!).
✅ Versatile – Works on gas, electric, or induction stove tops.
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
🛒 Upgrade Your Kitchen Today!
Titanium Cutting Board – The Last Meat Cutting Board You’ll Ever Need
Ditch flimsy plastic boards forever! This 100% pure titanium cutting board is ultra-hygienic, warp-proof, and built to last a lifetime. No more stains, odors, or bacteria-harboring grooves—just a non-slip, scratch-resistant surface perfect for meat (and nothing else!).
✅ Dishwasher safe – No fuss, no stains, just easy cleaning
✅ No more plastic waste – Stop replacing warped, stained boards (goodbye, landfill!)
✅ Stays razor-sharp – Gentle on knives, tough on mess
Finally, a cutting board that keeps up with your kitchen. Upgrade to titanium—never buy another board again.
(P.S. Toss those 50 plastic boards guilt-free. This one’s forever.)
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Unpolished Granite Mortar & Pestle – Heavy Duty & Natural
Unpolished Granite Mortar & Pestle – Heavy Duty & Natural
"Upgrade your kitchen with the ChefSofi Mortar and Pestle Set! Made from heavy, unpolished granite, this 6-inch set ensures enhanced grinding performance and a natural, organic look. With a 2-cup capacity, it’s perfect for crushing spices, herbs, guacamole, and more. Includes an anti-scratch protector to keep surfaces safe. A must-have for home chefs who love authentic, hands-on cooking!"
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Teak Cutting Board – Non-Toxic & Juice Groove
Unpolished Granite Mortar & Pestle – Heavy Duty & Natural
"Looking for a durable, non-toxic cutting board? This natural teak wood cutting board from BEEFURNI is a kitchen essential! Featuring a juice groove to catch liquids and a comfortable hand grip for easy carrying, it’s perfect for chopping, slicing, and serving. Made from high-quality, chemical-free teak wood, it’s naturally antibacterial and gentle on knives. A stylish and functional upgrade for any home chef!"
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Holistic Thai Cooking: The Clean, Flavor-Packed Pantry List
After 20+ years testing products, these are the brands I personally use in my kitchen and recommend.
After decades of teaching cooking and holistic wellness for vegetarian/ vegan / meat eater & all other types of food restrictions I seek only the purest ingredients—no MSG, additives, or hidden chemicals and some other healthy choices for substitutions that still remain authentic flavor. Here are my top USA-sourced finds for vibrant Thai flavors and nourishing meals. Because real food should taste incredible and support your health. No compromises!
"The brands and staples I use daily—free from hidden chemicals, full of flavor."
"If I wouldn’t serve it to my kids or my private students, you won’t find it here. Real food matters – for health, flavor, and joy in cooking!"
Top pick / First choice Ingredients for my kitchen
My Top 3 Healthy Cooking Oils
fish sauce isThe Secret to Authentic Thai Flavor, Naturally Brewed & No Additives(FYI gluten free)
1. Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (Get one here)
"The Tropical Powerhouse"
Cold-pressed from fresh coconuts, this oil adds a subtle sweetness to Thai curries and stir-fries. Rich in lauric acid (known for immune support), it’s perfect for medium-heat cooking and baking. Why I love it: Unrefined, antifungal, and gives dishes an authentic Southeast Asian flavor.
2. Primal Avocado Oil (Get one here)
2.1 . Chosen Foods Avocado oil
"The High-Heat Champion"
With a smoke point of 500°F+, this buttery, neutral oil is ideal for searing, frying, and dressings. Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. Why I love it: Zero chemical processing, and it won’t break down into harmful compounds like seed oils.
3. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Get one here)
"The Mediterranean Gold"
A staple for dressings, dips, and low-heat cooking. Bursting with antioxidants and polyphenols linked to longevity. Why I love it: Supports heart health, enhances flavors, and is minimally processed (look for "cold-pressed" and "unfiltered").
My Rule of Thumb:
- Coconut oil for Thai flavors & medium heat.
- Avocado oil for high-heat cooking.
- Olive oil for finishing & raw uses.
No seed oils, no chemicals—just pure, nourishing fats!
Bonus: What To Look For
✔ Certifications: USDA Organic, Non-GMO Verified
✔ Packaging: Dark glass or metal tins (prevents light damage)
✔ Labels: "Cold-pressed" and "Unrefined"
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
fish sauce isThe Secret to Authentic Thai Flavor, Naturally Brewed & No Additives(FYI gluten free)
fish sauce isThe Secret to Authentic Thai Flavor, Naturally Brewed & No Additives(FYI gluten free)
I'm picky about fish sauce – it's the soul of authentic flavors. Thai Kitchen Premium Fish Sauce is my top choice because it's naturally fermented (no shortcuts!), contains just three pure ingredients (anchovies, salt, water), and delivers that perfect balance of umami depth without any MSG or preservatives.
Why This Belongs in Your Kitchen:
✔ True Traditional Taste – Slow-brewed like artisan fish sauces in Thailand
✔ Clean & Simple – No added sugar, hydrolyzed proteins, or artificial flavors
✔ Versatile Foundation – Essential for pad Thai, curries, dressings, and dipping sauces
✔ Trusted Quality – Consistently high-rated by chefs and home cooks alike
For vibrant, restaurant-quality Thai dishes with zero hidden junk – this is the bottle I reach for daily."
Tip 1: Shake before use – those crystalized minerals at the bottom are a sign of authentic fermentation!
Tip 2: I do cooked everyday so I always get the big bottle. If you cook once in a blue moon just grab small bottle here.
Tip 3: If you go to local store get SUNLEE brand fish sauce if you find one (They also only made from anchovy, salt, water.)
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Coconut Sugar – A Healthier, Low-Glycemic Sweetener
"As a cooking instructor and holistic health coach for over 20 years, I’m passionate about natural ingredients that nourish and delight. But sometimes it's hard to find Pure / natural palm sugar in the store. (If you look for the one in the local store try BUTTERFLY brand it's made from palm sugar and water only. That’s why I love Terrasoul’s Organic Coconut Sugar—it’s unrefined, low-glycemic, and packed with trace minerals for a healthier alternative to processed sweeteners. With its rich caramel-like flavor, it’s perfect for Thai desserts, sauces, and balanced baking. No artificial additives, no hidden chemicals—just pure, sustainable sweetness!"
Why I Recommend It:
✔ Low Glycemic Index – Better blood sugar balance than regular sugar
✔ Unrefined & Mineral-Rich – Contains potassium, magnesium & zinc
✔ Versatile & Delicious – Ideal for curries, drinks, and guilt-free treats
✔ Ethically Sourced – USDA Organic, Fair Trade, and sustainably harvested
A pantry staple for anyone who loves authentic flavor and mindful eating!
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Native Forest Coconut Milk – My Go-To for Authentic Thai Flavors (When I’m Not Making It Fresh
As a Thai cooking instructor and health coach, I’m picky about coconut milk—it’s the soul of curries, soups, and desserts. When I don’t have time to make it from scratch, Native Forest Organic Coconut Milk is my #1 choice because:
Why It’s My Pantry Staple:
✅ Clean & Pure – Just two ingredients: organic coconut and water (no guar gum, additives, or preservatives).
✅ Rich & Creamy – Perfect consistency for velvety tom kha soup, luscious green curry, or coconut sticky rice.
✅ Ethically Sourced – USDA Organic, non-GMO, and sustainably harvested (no monkey labor!).
✅ BPA-Free Can – A rare find that matters for long-term health.
Pro Tip: Shake well before opening—the natural separation is a sign of quality!
How I Use It:
- Curries: Creates that luxurious, restaurant-worthy texture.
- Smoothies: Adds healthy fats without artificial thickeners.
- Desserts: The key to authentic mango sticky rice at home.
“For days when I can’t make fresh coconut milk, this is the only brand I trust to deliver real flavor without compromises.”
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Bragg Liquid Aminos – My Healthier Soy Sauce Alternative for Every Recipe
As someone who grew up using traditional soy sauce but later discovered its impact on my health through holistic nutrition studies, I made a firm decision: no more processed soy sauces in my kitchen. For years now, Bragg Liquid Aminos has been my go-to replacement—whether I’m cooking meat-based Thai dishes, vegetarian stir-fries, or vegan sauces. Here’s why:
Why I Switched & Never Looked Back:
✅ No Fermented Soy or Gluten – Unlike conventional soy sauce, Bragg’s is made from non-GMO soybeans and contains 16 amino acids for better digestion.
✅ Lower Sodium – About 1/3 less salt than regular soy sauce, but still packed with umami depth.
✅ Unprocessed & Clean – No hydrolyzed proteins, MSG, or artificial additives—just water and coconut palm sugar for natural balance.
✅ Versatile for All Diets – Works in pad Thai, marinades, dipping sauces, and even salad dressings.
How I Use It:
- Stir-Fries: A splash adds savory depth without overpowering.
- Marinades: Tenderizes meat while keeping flavors clean.
- Dipping Sauce: Mix with lime, garlic, and chili for a healthier nam jim.
- Vegan/Vegetarian Cooking: Gives plant-based dishes that essential umami kick.
"When I threw out my old soy sauces years ago, Bragg became my kitchen staple. It’s the only soy-alternative I trust to feed my family—without compromising flavor or health."
(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
"My Essential Thai Pantry Staples – The Clean, Flavor-Packed Basics I Always Keep Stocked"
"My Essential Thai Pantry Staples – The Clean, Flavor-Packed Basics I Always Keep Stocked"
After 20+ years of teaching Thai cooking and refining my approach through holistic nutrition, these are the foundational ingredients you’ll always find in my kitchen. While I prioritize quality, I know some artisanal items are best found locally.
A Note About Sourcing:
Some of these ingredients shine brightest when fresh or locally sourced. In my recipes, I’ll always specify:
- Preferred brands (for online shopping)
- What to look for locally (at Asian markets or specialty stores)
- When substitutions work (without compromising flavor)
My Never-Empty Basics:
- Real Coconut Milk (Native Forest Organic when I don’t make fresh)
- Clean Soy Alternative (Bragg Liquid Aminos as my go-to)
- Unrefined Sweeteners (Like coconut sugar, pure palm sugar for balance)
- Stable Cooking Oils (Avocado oil for high-heat needs)
“These are the non-negotiables that make Thai cooking both authentic and nourishing. For specific brands, shopping tips, and how I use them, check the notes in each recipe!”
Ready to Cook? → [Explore My Recipes]
Cooking Oils Exposed: Why I Only Use Organic & Unrefined
Healthy Fats 101: Skip Processed Oils for These 3 Clean Choices
Why You Should Cook with Organic, Unrefined Oils (and Avoid Processed Seed Oils)
As a cooking instructor and holistic health coach for over 20 years, I always prioritize oils that support both flavor and wellness. Here’s why I recommend organic avocado oil, extra virgin coconut oil, and unrefined olive oil—and avoid chemically processed oils like canola, corn, soybean, and vegetable oils:
1. Better for Your Health
- No Toxic Chemicals: Industrial seed oils (canola, corn, soybean, etc.) are extracted using hexane (a petroleum solvent) and often bleached/deodorized, leaving trace residues.
- No Rancid Fats: Polyunsaturated fats in seed oils oxidize easily, creating inflammatory free radicals linked to chronic disease.
- Stable at High Heat: Avocado oil (smoke point: 500°F+) and coconut oil (350°F+) resist breaking down into harmful compounds, unlike fragile seed oils.
2. Nutrient-Rich & Minimally Processed
- Avocado Oil: Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E.
- Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: Contains lauric acid, which supports immunity and metabolism.
- Unrefined Olive Oil: Loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols (linked to longevity).
3. Avoid GMOs & Pesticides
Most corn, canola, and soybean oils come from GMO crops heavily sprayed with glyphosate (a herbicide tied to gut damage). Organic oils skip these risks entirely.
4. Real Flavor, Not "Neutral" (Bland) Taste
Industrial oils are stripped of natural flavors—but quality oils enhance dishes:
- Coconut oil adds a subtle sweetness to curries.
- Avocado oil’s buttery richness perfects dressings and stir-fries.
- Olive oil brings peppery depth to sauces and dips.
What I Use Instead of Seed Oils:
- For High-Heat Cooking: Avocado oil, ghee, or coconut oil.
- For Dressings/Finishes: Extra virgin olive oil, unrefined sesame oil.
- For Baking: Organic butter or coconut oil.
Bottom Line: Your oils should nourish your body, not undermine it. Choose cold-pressed, organic, and unrefined—your taste buds and cells will thank you!
Disclaimer: "I am a participant in affiliate programs, and I earn from qualifying purchases. This post reflects my personal expertise and research as a cooking instructor and holistic health coach, but it is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making dietary changes."
