Trang:Villagers in Palian District, Trang Province, are reviving the tradition of making a rare, traditional chicken curry using a whole chicken, also known as "Grandma and Grandpa's Chicken Curry." This dish has recently been selected as one of Trang Province's "One Province, One Local Dish" for 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ban Rai Yong Star Community Tourism Enterprise Group in Tha Kham Subdistrict, Palian District, Trang Province, has revived the traditional recipe for whole chicken curry, or "Grandma and Grandpa's Chicken Curry," a local dish passed down through generations by the Muslim community in Palian District. This dish is a way to commemorate ancestors, show gratitude, and strengthen family ties. It is typically prepared and eaten during religious festivals and when families are together.
Currently, Grandma and Grandpa's Chicken Curry is in danger of disappearing due to its complicated preparation process. It involves numerous spices and herbs and requires simmering for over 40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors have mellowed. The uniqueness of this dish lies in its adherence to Halal principles as a Muslim cuisine. Emphasis is placed on every detail, from selecting the chicken and ingredients to preparing the curry paste and spices, controlling the heat, and slowly simmering the whole chicken with coconut milk, curry paste, herbs, and spices to allow the flavors and aromas to gradually permeate the meat. The term "Grandma and Grandpa's" carries deeper meaning than just the name of the dish; it connects it to the older generation who possessed the wisdom and culinary skills passed down through generations. Reviving this dish is like bringing back ancestral memories to be shared within the family.
Recently, the whole chicken curry, or "Grandma and Grandpa's Chicken Curry," was selected as one of Trang Province's 2026 featured local dishes in "The Lost Taste" project. This led to members of a local group coming together to sell the curry to tourists visiting Ban Rai Yong Star. Made fresh daily, it's available every day. A whole chicken costs 400-600 baht depending on weight. A plate of the curry is 150 baht, and a plate with rice is 99 baht. Orders must be placed one day in advance to allow time for the use of fresh spices and herbs sourced from the community.