A Thai culinary workshop in Thimphu is giving young hospitality students a taste of international cuisine and hands-on exposure to authentic Thai cooking. The initiative is also encouraging them to explore new skills and career opportunities in Bhutan’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.
For youth pursuing studies or careers in hospitality, the workshop was more than learning how to prepare Thai food.
It was an opportunity to step outside familiar flavours, learn new culinary techniques and discover the possibilities of working with international cuisine.
“I think it is a very good opportunity for us students to pursue our further studies in these international cuisines. I really like Thai cuisine, and I think I would like to pursue more of Thai cuisine. So, in the future, if I ever get an opportunity to learn more about Thai cuisine and work in a Thai restaurant,” said Rinchen Chogyel Letho, a student at the Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality, Thimphu.
“This kind of opportunity is very rare and special. It holds a lot of meaning and is very beneficial. It is very encouraging and inspiring. This kind of program will not only help inspire and motivate us but also lead to a better future,” said Bishnu Maya Dungana, another student.
“Although we may teach Thai cuisine here, I think with a Thai chef here, he adds the authenticity and the flavours of Thai, so it’s a great opportunity for my students and for RIT as well,” said Kinga Thinley, Assistant Lecturer at the Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality, Thimphu.
Organisers say learning international cuisines can help broaden skills and open opportunities in restaurants, hotels and other areas of hospitality.
For Thailand, sharing its cuisine serves as a way of connecting young Bhutanese with Thai culture.
Thitiporn Chirasawadi, Ambassador of Thailand, said, “For this workshop, we wish that the students will learn new skills to prepare the Thai dish, Thai authentic taste. Nowadays, a lot of people around the world enjoy Thai food. So, I wish that this workshop can prepare them with some skills, some knowledge and experience for their future career.”
For the young participants, the workshop offered more than a new set of recipes. It showed how learning another country’s cuisine can open the door to new skills, new cultural experience and new career possibilities.
Anita Chhetri
Edited by Sonam Pem
