Some dried mushrooms contain much sandy grit and need to be checked carefully after soaking. This thin, translucent, salty brown sauce is a must in Thai cooking for which there is no substitute. Nam means water and pla means fish. It is made by salting down small fish that are packed in wooden barrels. Although the odor is strong when uncooked, the flavor mellows upon cooking.
Thai garlic is smaller and more tender than in the West.
It is usually peeled and finely chopped before use in most of Thai dishes. Chopped fried garlic can be purchased in Asian food stores. Cover completely with a lid and turn the heat down low. The rice needs to be cooked 8 to 10 minutes more. It is available fresh in selected Asian grocery stores.