The sharp and irresistible aroma of grilled chicken overcomes the senses and forces you to walk to its source. The sound of grilled pate again commands your attention. As well as the smell of fried rice. Or the sound of the mortar and pestle mixing in those irresistible flavors and ingredients. Even the noodle stand nearby warrants your presence. How can one not withstand Southeast Asian street vendor food?

Having a go at the region’s street vendor food is a great way to uncover the culture and lifestyle of Southeast Asia. The taste is genuine and the happenings that occur around you while you eat are quite priceless. See the cook/vendor prepare the dish right in front of your eyes. Observe the ingredients used as wellas the cooking methods being performed and you might just be able to pick it up and copy it when you get back home. See little children run up and down the street, motorcycle drivers hanging out or families enjoy fast food together – Southeast Asian style.

So, you got your dish and are ready to eat. But wait, the flavoring is not done yet. You got your fish sauce, soy sauce, chilies, lime and all kinds of condiments on your table, ready to flavor your meal even more. Add as much or as little of these condiments to your plate as needed. You take a bite, break a into a sweat from the rich taste of the meal (and of course from the heat of Southeast Asia’s warm tropical weather) and continue on because the food is irresistible and the experience is as genuine as it gets.

Want to learn and master the art of Southeast Asian food? Sample some of the region’s finest tastes with our Culinary Journeys.

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