Ingredient appreciation — what makes Pad Thai special

What sets Pad Thai apart is the handling of Thai basil. In lesser versions this is treated as a background note. Here it's central and the fragrant and herbaceous result shows it. I've started buying it to cook with at home after this experience.

Thai cooking philosophy balances four key flavour profiles in every dish. The a traditional home kitchen atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had fresh coconut water as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Pad Thai is the place to start.