The Naming of Lanna Food in Chiang Mai Province and Tai Yai Food in Taunggyi, Shan State

Abstract

This research aims to compare the components and structures of Lanna food names with Tai Yai food names. Data for Lanna food names were collected from the Lanna Food Database website of Chiang Mai University, totaling 153 names. Data for Tai Yai food names were obtained through interviews with Tai Yai individuals in Taunggyi, Shan State, resulting in 131 names. The component analysis revealed that Lanna food names have six components, while Tai Yai food names have seven components. The majority of these components pertain to ingredients and methods of preparation. In terms of the number of components, both Lanna and Tai Yai food names most frequently consist of two components. Structurally, Lanna food names can be categorized into five types. Most Lanna food names start with the "method of preparation," followed by names starting with the "type of food." In contrast, Tai Yai food names can be divided into four types, with most names starting with the "ingredient type," followed by names starting with the "type of food." It is evident that while Lanna and Tai Yai food names share similar components, they often differ in their structural patterns. This research highlights the culinary cultures of the Lanna and Tai Yai people, reflecting both the shared characteristics of the Tai ethnic groups and the unique aspects of their local cultures.