Chopsticks Conundrum

you know, i think it might actually be the shrimp paste in their nam prik pao. some brands have a really funky mineral edge that stands out if you're not used to it, especially when it's fresh ground. i've had that same sauce before and it grew on me after a few visits, but i totally get why it catches you off guard. try dipping a bite of their tod mun pla (the fish cakes) in it next time, the sweetness of the fish balances it out way better than the noodles do

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honestly i think it might be the tamarind in their sauce, it can taste kinda metallic if you're not used to it. my thai friend says some places use a specific type of dried chili that has that mineral-y bite. next time just ask for the plain prik nam pla on the side, that's what i do

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fwiw i think that metallic taste might be from the mortar and pestle they use. some of those old stone ones have iron residue that leaches into the paste, especially if they're grinding dried chilies and shrimp paste together. i asked the owner once and he said they've had that same stone mortar for like 15 years, so it's prob just seasoned with everything they've ever ground in it. not a bad thing, just character. next time try their green curry instead, the coconut milk balances out that heavy flavor

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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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