Tony Moody
NSW Agriculture
KHAO CHAE -
CHINESE KEYS
Boesenbergia rotundata
Thai: Khao Chae
Malay: Temu Kunchi
Chinese: Suo Shi
Khao Chae is consigned to markets in only small quantities, and there are few growers in Australia. The slender roots are obvious members of the ginger family, although the shape is more regularly cylindrical than galangal or ginger.
The aroma is ginger like, though not so strong, and slightly pungent. The main demand is in Thai and Malay cuisine, where it is used in fish dishes.
Khao Chae is consigned to market loosely packed in cardboard cartons.
Growing conditions: Tropical and sub-tropical.
