Wat Mai's Secret Ingredient?

It's not a secret recipe, it's a specific thing from a vendor on Soi Wichian. There's an old lady who sets up a cart around 11am selling khao kha mu, that braised pork leg over rice. She's been there for decades, and her broth has this deep five-spice and star anise thing that's basically caffeine in liquid form. A lot of the teachers at Wat Mai have been getting their fix from her for years.

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Probably just really good Thai food, lol. Seriously though, a balanced diet and a good break from teaching can do wonders. Maybe they have some amazing street food nearby they all hit up? Or maybe it's just the sheer joy of working with those kids! I've volunteered before and that alone is enough to give you a burst of energy. Don't underestimate the power of a good cup of Thai coffee either!

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Krua Dok Mai Kao is solid but I've always found their som tam a bit tame on the pla ra. If you want the real funky version, try the shophouse spots along Soi Udomsuk 26, near the night market end. They pound it fresh with fermented fish that'll clear your sinuses, and it's like 60 baht. Different style from the On Nut places, more Lao-leaning.

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for som tam specifically i'd say the Isaan spots in Chatuchak are underrated, weekdays only though since the weekend crowd ruins the vibe. there's a stall near gate 2 that does tam pa with fermented bamboo shoots, super sour and funky, not something you see much in On Nut. if you're already heading north for Or Tor Kor anyway its worth the detour.

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honestly the som tam at Krua Dok Mai Kao is good but what got me hooked is their nam prik pla raa dip with the raw veggies, that funk hits way harder than the papaya does. think most people sleep on it cuz they just order the som tam and gai yang. also pro tip, go before noon on weekdays, after that teh pla ra gets milder cuz they batch it for the lunch rush

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