The Story Beyond a Thai Dish [11th Dish] The Second Breakfast

Mornings in Isan begin with the greeting 'Kin khao rue yang?' (Have you eaten yet?). Even if you have already had breakfast at home, you eat again with everyone once you arrive at work. That is just a normal part of daily life.

On the table, there is fish grilled over charcoal, Isan sausage 'Sai Krok Isan' with its signature tang, crispy fried chicken, stir-fried morning glory fragrant with garlic, and Nam Prik packed with chili peppers. We tear off pieces of white rice and sticky rice 'Khao Niao' taken from a bag with our hands, sharing it all together.

On another day, there is creamy Kuay Tiao (rice noodles) with tofu and green onions, green curry mixed with chives and bean sprouts, Gai Yang (grilled chicken) slow-cooked over charcoal, and a super spicy Nam Jim made with chopped chili peppers and herbs. Each dish has that rustic, robust flavor typical of Isan.

The habit of picking at food together in the corner of the office for breakfast, lunch, and dinner is more than just a meal. As we eat our second breakfast, laughter naturally arises, and our hearts feel warm. Sharing food brings us much closer to our colleagues. Even in the midst of busy days, this moment is what makes us feel at ease.

However, there is one problem. The breakfast I ate at home, the second breakfast at work, lunch, an afternoon snack, a little something to tide me over before dinner, and then the real dinner when I get home. Before I know it, I am eating many times a day, and along with that welcome warmth, my weight is also gradually creeping up.