![[PR] PR_Ascott and Vimut Hospital_2024](https://www.traveldailynews.asia/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PR-PR_Ascott-and-Vimut-Hospital_2024-400x265.jpg)
In an exclusive interview, Chef Nooror Somany Steppe shared her gastronomic journey with David Barrett, highlighting Blue Elephant’s fusion of traditional Thai cuisine with innovative global flavors.
In the heart of Bangkok, on Sathorn Road, Blue Elephant Thai Cooking School & Restaurant stands as a testament to the culinary and entrepreneurial brilliance of Chef Nooror Somany Steppe. Co-founder and MasterChef of this gastronomic haven, Chef Nooror graciously welcomed Trends Host David Barrett for a delectable Christmas episode that unfolded her culinary journey.
The Blue Elephant empire began in 1980 when Chef Nooror, residing in Brussels with her antique dealer husband, captivated friends and clients with her authentic Thai creations. Encouraged by the resounding success of her cooking, she embarked on a venture that led to the establishment of the first Blue Elephant restaurant in Brussels, followed by another in London.
Returning to Thailand, Chef Nooror and her husband planted the roots of Blue Elephant Thai Cooking School & Restaurant in Bangkok. The success echoed further as their son, Kim Steppe, helmed a thriving branch in Phuket. The culinary success was built on the foundation of Chef Nooror’s passion for Thai cuisine, with recipes handed down through generations.
Chef Nooror’s culinary prowess shines through in her favorite dish, the Massaman curry. Born into a family where curry was a staple, Chef Nooror’s version has evolved to feature lamb, delighting international visitors and locals alike. At Blue Elephant, the menu draws inspiration from Thailand’s four regions, blending heritage recipes, traditional Thai cuisine, and innovative fusion creations.
Two standouts, the Massaman Lamb Curry and Tom Yum Goong shrimp soup, have become iconic at Blue Elephant. These dishes encapsulate the essence of Thai cuisine, where flavours create a sensation on the palate.
Chef Nooror’s commitment to promoting Thai cuisine transcends the kitchen. Appointed to the advisory board of Soft Power Food, an initiative by the Royal Thai Government, she strives to elevate Thailand’s creative economy globally. The initiative focuses on the “Five F’s” – Food, Fashion, Film, Festivals, and Fight (Muay Thai boxing), with Chef Nooror championing Thai culinary heritage and ingredients.
Thai food’s global appeal is indisputable, as evidenced by its high rankings in international culinary charts. Dishes like Gaeng Kiew Waan (Green Curry), Panang Curry, and Phaad Thai noodles consistently top lists, attesting to the universal love for Thai flavours. Chef Nooror’s Blue Elephant products, exporting to 45 countries, allow enthusiasts worldwide to recreate authentic Thai dishes at home.
For Chef Nooror, Thai rivers hold profound significance, symbolizing life and sustenance for communities. This sentiment is woven into Blue Elephant’s New Year’s Eve 2023 extravaganza, themed “Magical Rivers,” featuring a carefully curated six-course menu from Thailand’s diverse regions, each complemented by exquisite wine pairings.
As a testament to Chef Nooror’s diverse culinary palette, she revealed her dinner plans – a delightful Kaphraow Pasta, blending Thai and Italian influences. Trained in French cuisine, Chef Nooror’s ability to seamlessly merge European and Thai flavours adds a touch of international sophistication to her home table.
In conclusion, Blue Elephant Thai Cooking School & Restaurant, under the guidance of Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, stands as a beacon of Thai culinary excellence, captivating palates globally. As we embark on a culinary journey at Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant, the essence of Thai cuisine, with its rich history and vibrant flavours, unfolds in a truly enchanting way.
David Barrett is a MICE Consultant, Marketing Strategist and digital video advocate. Founder of DBC Group, Member of Institute of Place Management (MIMP) his motto is “Everybody has a story to tell. Let me tell yours.”
David is a long-term resident of Bangkok having lived and worked in the Thai capital for more than 32 years. He is recognised in the Thai tourism and hospitality industry for his passion for promoting Thailand, his love of Thai food, and his creative approach to marketing.
64 years young, David is a Brit in Bangkok. Born in St Helier, UK, he returned to the UK and set up home in Cornwall during the COVID pandemic. With business back as usual, David has returned to Thailand. He’s a man on a mission to interview leaders and trend-setters in business, sustainability, the arts and entertainment. You can watch his weekly conversations on Trends YouTube channel.
