Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   1      whole         chicken -- (2.5 - 3 lbs)
   1      tablespoon    fresh chopped ginger
   1      tablespoon    chopped fresh garlic
   1      teaspoon      ground turmeric
   1      tablespoon    light brown sugar
   2      tablespoons   oil
   2      stalks        fresh lemon grass -- (bottom 6" only,
                        -- chopped
   2      tablespoons   chopped fresh coriander root
   2      tablespoons   fish sauce -- (nam pla)

Preparation:

Rinse the chicken and pat dry. Split the chicken in half down the breast or cut into serving sized pieces. Pound or process the lemon grass, ginger, garlic, and coriander root in a mortar, blender, or processor until a smooth paste is formed, adding a little of the oil if necessary. Add turmeric, brown sugar, fish sauce, and (remaining) oil. Blend until smooth. Pour mixture over the chicken, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours or (up to) overnight. Turn the pieces periodically to allow them to marinate evenly. Prepare hot coals for barbecuing, or preheat the broiler. Grill the chicken until the juices from the thickest part run clear, about 20-30 minutes. Note: this recipe works well for grilled Thai Chicken Wings, too!