"Trang Roasted Pork": The Journey of Chinese Migrants’ Wisdom to Trang Local Popular Dish

Abstract

Trang roasted pork is a signature delicacy of Trang Province in which its long history can portray local and Chinese migrants and depict the blended mixture of typical spices and unique in its taste. The objective of this research is to study the story and history of Trang roasted pork by using  qualitative research methodology. The sample group is the key informants, whom are five descendants of former roasted pork producers and the present roasted pork producers in Trang . Data collection is made through in-depth interviews. The research tools are questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Data Analysis is made by content analysis. The results of the research  found that the journey of Trang roasted pork is due to Chinese people’s migration and settlement in Trang.  These migrants introduced there agriculture, labor and trading practices to Trang . Pigs were export animals that Chinese merchants sold and delivered to Penang and China.  They also persuaded  the Cantonese people who had the knowledge and wisdom of roasting pork, to settle in Trang. Hainan pigs where first used for roasting . They were marinated with spices that where found locally and roasted individually in brick ovens. Even the firewood that was used was locally produced making it a product truly native to Trang.  At present, Trang roasted pork is a geographical indication product of Trang Province, Thailand, and it is also a product that promotes food and culture tourism and shows the link between Thai-Chinese cultures.