Kaeng thepho

Kaeng thepho is a traditional Thai curry that dates back more than 200 years. It is mentioned in Kap He Chom Khrueang Khao Wan, a celebrated poetic work composed during the reign of King Rama II (early Rattanakosin period). In this poem, the dish is praised in vivid terms: Kaeng thepho is classified as a traditional central Thai curry. Its original name derives from the freshwater shark catfish known as thepho (Pangasius larnaudii), which was once the primary ingredient used in preparing the dish. Consequently, the curry itself took its name directly from this fish. Over time, however, cultural changes and shifts in trade made thepho increasingly scarce. As a result, the recipe gradually evolved to employ pork belly instead.

Description: Wikipedia — Kaeng thepho, CC BY-SA 4.0