There is a reason that I can never be a good cook. This is a good example. I love Thai food. I would eat anything made in a Thai restaurant. However, when it comes to home cooking, I don't embrace the use of Thai condiments like fish sauce, shrimp paste and Thai chili paste. Strange, isn't it!? Without these ingredients, would my Tom Yum taste Tom Yum? Yes but you may miss the distinct, pungent smell if you are a loyal Thai food lover. :P