Chef Mike Tuangkitkum from Vancouver’s Maenam Restaurant
Canada’s Great Kitchen Party is the lead-up to the Canadian Culinary Championship and is underway in cities across Canada. Vancouver’s competition takes place on November 24, 2022, at the Westin. We’ve asked the chefs a few questions to get to know them a bit better and here are the results from Chef Mike Tuangkitkun, the Chef de Cuisine at Vancouver’s Maenam.
Tell us a little bit about your style of cooking.
I am devoted to using only traditional Thai recipes, combined with French and Thai cooking techniques, and using local ingredients whenever possible.
Where do you eat in Vancouver when you have a day off? Top three spots perhaps?
I live in Richmond, and these are my go-to spots:
HK BBQ Master
Bánh Mi Très Bon
Mama’s Dumplings & Coffee
What would be your ideal food day?
Any style of good food as long as I am with family and good friends.
What trend do you wish would die?
I enjoy quality vegetarian and vegan dishes—the lifestyle is very popular in Thai culture—but I would be fine if the highly processed plant-based trend would die.
What trend/s do you wish would be next?
Lower prices for ingredients to make way for quality but inexpensive dining.
Who is a Chef you would stage for free under, and why?
David Thompson because he was the first chef to receive a Michelin Star for a Thai restaurant. Nahm in London was awarded a star within six months of opening.
Do you have a favourite food and beverage pairing?
Deep-fried pork belly or chicken wings with a coke.
What ingredients do you always have on hand?
Fish sauce.
What’s your go-to recipe when you’re eating at home?
My kids love sushi-bake and tacos so that is what I usually make on my day off.
What is your favourite tool in the kitchen?
Has to be my green handle Nenox knife from Japan.
Any hints on what dish you will be preparing for the Great Kitchen Party?
Anadromous. My dish represents elements of my life and chef journey from Thailand to the west coast of Canada.
What wine/beer/libation are you pairing with this year?
I am thrilled to pour Tantalus Vineyards 2020 Old Vines Riesling before its release date.
Who is cooking with you for the competition?
Jeramy Tan, Sous Chef at Maenam and Alex Lim, Sous Chef at Maenam
