Embark on a culinary journey like no other with a unique grassroots cooking class in the heart of Bangkok’s Klong Toey community. Meet Khun Saiyuud Diwong, lovingly known as Poo, a resilient resident of Klong Toey who has opened her doors to share her passion for Thai cuisine with the world.
The Klong Toey community is one of the largest and oldest slum areas in Bangkok, Thailand. Situated along the Chao Phraya River, Klong Toey is home to a diverse population, including low-income families, migrant workers, and individuals facing economic challenges. Despite its reputation as a slum area, Klong Toey is a vibrant community with a strong sense of resilience and community spirit. Residents often engage in various initiatives to improve living conditions and create opportunities for themselves and their neighbors.
In late 2007, faced with the challenges of rising rice prices, Khun Poo found herself unable to sustain her livelihood by selling food from her home. However, her indomitable spirit led her to establish a small cooking school, where she now welcomes visitors from far and wide to experience the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine while immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of Klong Toey.
Begin your culinary adventure by wandering through the bustling Klong Toey wet market. Learn about local Thai produce as you select fresh ingredients for your cooking class. Join Khun Poo in her intimate cooking school, where she’ll teach you the secrets behind several delicious and authentic Thai dishes. From fragrant curries to mouthwatering stir-fries, prepare to tantalize your taste buds with flavors that capture the essence of Thai cuisine. After mastering the art of Thai cooking under Khun Poo’s guidance, sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor a delectable lunch prepared by your own hands.
immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere, offering a moment of quiet reflection amidst the bustling journey.
Thai cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, aromatic spices, and fresh ingredients. Here are some fascinating tidbits about Thai cuisine to whet your appetite:
- Spice Sensations: Thai cuisine is celebrated for its use of aromatic herbs and spices, such as lemongrass, galangal, and Thai basil, which lend depth and complexity to dishes.
- Regional Diversity: From the fiery curries of the south to the tangy salads of the northeast, Thai cuisine reflects the diverse culinary traditions of its regions, offering a kaleidoscope of flavors and textures.
- Rice, the Heart of Thai Cuisine: Rice is the staple food of Thailand and is served with almost every meal. Whether steamed, fried, or used to make noodles, rice forms the foundation of Thai cuisine.
Through experiences like Khun Poo’s cooking class, visitors have the opportunity to engage with the local community, learn about their way of life, and support grassroots initiatives aimed at empowerment and socio-economic development.
Book our unique personality experience for your clients! Contact our Thailand team at sales.thailand@khiri.com.
Thank you, Cooking with Poo, for giving us permission to use the photos.