What does Mookata mean?
The word Mookata comes from the combination of two Thai words: "mu", which means "pork", and "kata" or "kratha", which can be translated as pan. So, Mookata literally means "pork in a pan". Like the word "barbecue", it refers to a popular cooking method in Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand, which, unlike the Korean gas barbecue, is cooked over charcoal.
Mookata, an original barbecue experience
When we think of barbecue, we often picture, as in the American BBQ tradition, Argentinian Asado or Portuguese Churrasco, a grill placed skillfully over the fire, in a small or large brazier, to sear meats, fish, and vegetables. But in the Thai barbecue tradition, it’s a whole different story.
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As for Mookata, the "device" or "barbecue" is a kind of large aluminum pan set over a clay pot filled with hot coals. The upper part is made of two distinct pieces, looking somewhat like a giant citrus press. The dome-shaped center is used for grilling meats and fish, while the rest of the pan is used to prepare a broth. The Thai barbecue is a cross between Korean barbecue and Chinese Hot Pot, which is a simmering soup where you cook ingredients by dipping them in, much like a fondue.
The Mookata cooking method
Just like in the Yakiniku tradition, the Japanese barbecue, Mookata is cooked right at the table. Once the pan is placed in the center of the table over glowing coals, the moat is filled with water and your choice of ingredients to create the broth. Before grilling your meat on the upper part, you place a piece of pork fat at the top of the dome. As it melts, it greases the surface, prevents food from sticking, and adds flavor to the broth. Each guest is then invited to place their pieces of meat, fish, or vegetables to grill. As more pieces are cooked, the juices drip into the broth, infusing it with flavor—delicious!
What do you eat at a Thai barbecue?
Pork, sliced thinly—especially pork belly—is the star ingredient of Mookata. You’ll also find chicken, lamb, as well as shrimp, squid, vegetables, mushrooms, and more. In the broth, vegetables are usually added, and of course, the essential noodles, to which you can add seafood, meatballs, or fish balls... All these delights are served with sauces, "nam chim", ranging from mild to spicy, such as the famous Su-Ki sauce. To treat yourself, discover our recipe for smoked pork belly with Kokko.
Mookata, a beloved tradition in Thailand
In the Land of Smiles, Mookata is a true institution. While some restaurants serve it, the tradition is to gather with family or friends in large halls or open-air venues to enjoy it together. Buffets, most often all-you-can-eat, are the norm. Everyone selects their favorite ingredients from a vast array of meats, fish, and vegetables before coming together around large tables.
