Among the flowers closely connected to the riverside Thai way of life,the "Sesbania" flowerstands out as one of the most distinct symbols, especially in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. This bright yellow flower is not only the province's official flower but also carries stories dating back to the founding of Ayutthaya, becoming a wisdom passed down to rare traditional Thai sweets today.
Khun Suwan Atkonghan, or Khun On, owner of Ruean Marie exquisite Thai sweets shop, told the Thairath Online lifestyle team about the Sesbania flower’s connection to Ayutthaya. When King Ramathibodi I (King U Thong) established Ayutthaya in 1350 CE (B.E. 1893), he chose a location called"Nong Sesbania"as the site for the royal palace,
because the area was densely covered with Sesbania trees by the water. The Sesbania flower has thus been a riverside plant closely associated with Ayutthaya for over 200–300 years, which is why it is the official flowerofPhra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province today.
From a roadside plant with a naturally slightly bitter taste, the wisdom of Ayutthaya people transformed the Sesbania flower into both savory and sweet dishes. While many are familiar with boiling Sesbania flowers to eat with chili paste or making sour curry, the evolution into"Sesbania Flower Sweets"is a refined craft showcasing the identity of the old capital’s people.
"Sesbania flowers have a slight bitterness, but with the ancient wisdom of Ayutthaya people, they mixed the flowers with rice flour and steamed them, then sprinkled with coconut and sugar, resulting in a wonderfully balanced and delicious taste," Khun Suwan explained.
Because of this, Sesbania flower sweets are among the dishes featured in the Lost Thai Taste project by the Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture, as these sweets are rarely found in general markets but often made in local households.
Their distinctive feature is using fresh Sesbania flowers mixed with rice and glutinous rice flour, then steamed until cooked. The texture is soft and smooth, with a gentle floral aroma, complemented by the sweetness and richness from palm sugar and coconut milk.
The charm of Sesbania flower sweets for Ayutthaya locals is that this dish is not just a dessert but a nostalgic taste evoking memories of grandparents’ cooking and the warmth of home.
efforts are underway to add value to the Sesbania flower to prevent it from fading over time, such as making"Sesbania Flower Rolled Crisps"that can be preserved and enjoyed year-round, or developing"Sesbania Flower Tea"for health benefits.
Those wishing to experience this legendary flavor firsthand can visit communities like Ban Ton Satu 3 Ton in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, which still welcome tourists to join workshops making Sesbania flower sweets, immersing in riverside life and helping keep the province’s signature flavor alive.
Discover why Central Thais enjoy very sweet foods and seek out fading traditional dishes like Sesbania flower sweets inTHE LOST THAI TASTE: The Vanishing Flavors EP.1
Supported by the Department of Cultural Promotion.