Wonders in Watermelon

Encyclopedia of the Exquisite includes an entry on the history of ‘sotleties,’ clever foody creations that mesmerized diners at European Medieval and Renaissance feasts, including the four-and-twenty-blackbirds-baked-in-a-pie of nursery rhyme fame. Only recently, however, did the tradition of Thai food carving come to my attention. Aristocratic ladies once practiced the skill, which reached the height of its popularity in Thailand in the 19th century.

Some of my favorites are the Thai-style watermelon roses, see videos below. It’s watermelon season. I’m looking for a sharp knife…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Lg8bi0kdYU [/youtube]

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfwziJRbazQ[/youtube]