Our columnist, Daniel Green, has a new cookbook called Take Home Thailand. Eagle-eyed readers will notice that the photos were taken by our photographer Chris Emeott. We spoke with Green about his latest work.
What inspired you to write this cookbook?
My heart has always had a passport stamped with Thai flavors. Thailand has become one of my favorite places to visit. It inspired my very first cookbook 23 years ago, and now, for my 14th cookbook, I’ve come full circle with Take Home Thailand.
Thai food can feel intimidating to make at home, especially with hard-to-find ingredients. How do you help home cooks get past that hurdle?
I wanted to make Thai cooking easy, approachable and full of the same joy it brings me. I simplified recipes by skipping hard-to-find ingredients and focused on what’s readily available. So, home cooks anywhere can enjoy Thai classics like Tom Yum Soup and fragrant curries without the stress. This book has everything—breakfasts, curries, desserts, salads, soups—and even tips on creating your own Thai dinner party or buffet spread. It’s truly easy and made for everyone.
How did you come to know Chris Emeott?
I first met Chris when he came to shoot the Thanksgiving cover for Edina Magazine [in 2023]. I stayed in touch. Chris said he was fascinated by Thai food, and I asked him to be part of the cookbook. He captured the spirit of the country with unforgettable images. The vibrancy, the energy and the colors of both the food and the people jump off every page. We also shot many of the recipes right in my Edina kitchen.
One of those recipes is Thai Red Curry in a Pumpkin, which you can find at edinamag.com. Take Home Thailand is available at local bookstores.
