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Chef Chai

Digest Step Up to the Plate

August 25, 2013

Story By: Alana Folen | Photos by: Leah Friel

TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: VEGETABLE TERRINE WITH THAI GREEN CURRY SAUCE ($25)

For food enthusiasts conscious about healthy eating, it’s nice to know that Chef Chai at Pacifica Honolulu caters to your every need. There’s no need to dwell over an abundance of calories or fat content, because celebrity chef Chai Chaowasaree makes it a priority to utilize quality ingredients with the most nutritional value — in fact, butter is a no-go here.

Vegetable Terrine with Thai Green Curry Sauce showcases a rainbow of colors, and is a guilt-free, French-inspired entree that Chaowasaree says will make patrons drop their jaws in awe of its exquisite presentation and exceptional taste.

Thin layers of sliced Japanese eggplant, zucchini and carrot keep the dish in tact. The complex, but exquisite presentation seems almost effortless.

“This dish caters to a healthy diet and tastes delicious! You can’t go wrong with this,” Chaowasaree affirms.

This vegetarian favorite is accompanied by a bowl of brown rice (high in fiber and vitamin B) steamed in coconut milk and ginger. Believe it or not, this is the best brown rice you’ve ever tasted.

Vibrant hues from grilled asparagus, roasted red bell peppers, fresh shiitake mushrooms, mashed Okinawan sweet potato and kabocha bring the dish to life. Diners also revel in the abundant nutritional benefits associated with these particular veggies. “This dish looks like a piece of artwork, and it wows guests when we present it to them,” says Chaowasaree. “Plus, the vegetables are so fresh and healthy, and you’ll be surprised as to how filling it is. The dish is also gluten-free!”

“We have a couple, who are regulars here, and they only order this one particular dish when they come to the restaurant.”

Vegetable Terrine bathes in a sea of Thai green curry, which exudes a zestful flavor and a zing of mild spice. According to Chaowasaree, green chili, curry leaves, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, roasted garlic, shallots and coconut milk are the essence of this sauce, which pairs well with the vegetable medley.

Chef Chai

Pacifica Honolulu
1009 Kapiolani Blvd.
585-0011
Nightly, 4-11 p.m.
ChefChai.com
Note: Reservations are recommended.

Honolulu, HI 96814

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