THE NARRATIVES OF FAMILIES THROUGH "TAO-KUA" THE LOCAL THAI FOOD IN THE MAIN PROVINCE OF SONGKHLA

Abstract

          The objectives of this research article were to study about the history of “Tao-Kua” families and heritage traditions among the people of Songkhla. Using qualitative research methods, the data was collected by in-depth interviews with two groups. Firstly, 12 people from families that had inherited the traditions of “Tao-Kua” through their ancestors, and the second group included 3 local specialists. A total of 15 people from Singhanakhon, Mueang Songkhla and Hat-Yai district in the Songkhla Province. Triangulate data analysis were used in this research. The research method involved using the concept of story-telling and local wisdom to explore the traditions of “Tao-Kua”. The research discovered that fast and effective logistics enabled the growth in the market of “Tao Kua”. Secondly, families that have inherited the traditions of “Tao-Kua” have passed their wisdom through at least four generations. Thirdly, 11 out of the 12 families have kept the traditional recipes and methods of cooking “Tao-Kua”, with only one family changing the method. Next, the research found that the method of production of “Tao-Kua” reflects the spirit of love for food and the cook.  There are two characteristics with regards to passing the traditions of “Tao-Kua”, firstly there are families which pass traditions through their own generations, then others that inherit knowledge through different families. The traditional methods of making “Tao-Kua” have two distinct groups. The first group kept the traditional methods both in the process of making the ingredients and the way of eating, the second group changed the appearance and taste to match the lifestyle of the new generation. However, all groups still maintain the traditional identity of “Tao-Kua’s ingredient” along with the heritage of wisdom through generations. The inheritance of new generations have 3 styles. Firstly: except, secondly: not except and thirdly: not sure.