Ice obsession – the Thai way of drinking
Ice cubes are integral to Thai life, an essential, their use ingrained in daily habits, but this ice obsession is rarely viewed through the same lens by outsiders, who see its presence in almost every beverage as peculiar.
Ice was introduced as an exotic luxury almost two centuries ago. Since then, it has evolved into a deep-seated compulsion. While ice is a global commodity, Thailand’s relationship with it transcends mere consumption. It is an addiction ingrained in the very fabric of daily life. To understand why this frozen fixture has remained a staple for Thais, we must delve deeper into the reasons behind it:
Hot and humid all year round
Thailand’s weather is unforgiving with its high temperatures and humidity lasting all year. Ice has become a staple across every level of society. Adding it to water is not just about the chill, but it is a practical way to manage body heat and get that much-needed, momentary relief from the heat.
A culture of bold and spicy flavours
Thai cuisine is a masterclass in balance, known for its bold combination of spicy, salty, sweet, and sour. For many, these intense flavours find their perfect foil not in room-temperature water, but in a glass packed with ice. There is something about an ice-cold drink that cuts through the heat and richness of a meal, making it the ideal companion for any local table.
A cold sign of hospitality
Traditionally, offering a cold drink to a guest has always been a fundamental gesture of Thai hospitality. As ice became more accessible, it quickly set a new standard for hosting, whether at home or in a restaurant. Today, that bucket of ice is not just an add-on, it is a non-negotiable part of the meal, defining what a perfect beverage should be in the eyes of a Thai host.
Thais are serious about their ice, treating it with as much importance as the drink itself. We do not just use whatever is available, but there is a specific ice pairing for every kind of drink. Crushed ice is the way to go for Thai tea or traditional handcrafted drinks, while standard tube ice is reserved for sodas. When it comes to desserts, nothing but shaved ice will do. Ultimately, this proves that in Thailand, ice is far more than just frozen water. It is a fun element that serves as a vital part of the flavour.
Looking beyond our borders, the world views ice through a completely different lens. It is a mere option rather than a necessity for many. For instance, they often see dropping ice cubes into a glass of beer as a horror that serves to dilute the flavour. Even among our Southeast Asian neighbours who share our stifling humidity, Thailand’s obsession with ice remains an outlier. While others might enjoy a cold drink, Thais treat ice as a non-negotiable part of the experience.
While our habits might seem alien to those from other countries, it is this very uniqueness that defines the Thai spirit. We are constantly seeking the perfect match in every flavour and texture. What others dismiss as a strange obsession is actually our advantage. It allows us to discover new sensations and explore an unseen side of refreshment that the rest of the world may have yet to uncover.
Source – Bangkok News
