BK: How did you learn to cook?
I read a lot of cookbooks and I used to be a waiter in a big restaurant where I learned bits and pieces from the chef. Back then I had to eat out a lot, so I had the chance to try many variations of the same dishes which helped me when I became a cook.

BK: What is the hardest food for you to cook?
That would be kanom jeen nam prik (rice vermicelli served with curry) because of its complicated flavor, which is sweet, sour and salty at the same time. Each person has a different perception of the dish, too: some prefer it sweet and others like it really sour.

BK: How are the high food prices affecting your business?
They are having a large impact on all small street vendors. And I can’t raise my prices because people will complain and I’d lose customers. I voted for this government in the hope that this sort of situation could be averted, but obviously it hasn’t. So that’s it for me, I’m kind of through with Thai politics. Now all I can do is prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

BK: How good is your khao gaeng?
Well, you’ll have to ask my customers, but I think it’s pretty good seeing as I have a number of regular customers and most of it sells out at the end of each day.

BK: What are the best and the worst things about your job?
The best is knowing that khao gaeng will never go out of style as it is so entwined with the Thai way of life—it’s fast, cheap and easy to share. I also enjoy that my job keeps me in the loop because people love to gossip when they eat in a group! The worst thing is that my income is so uncertain due to the fluctuating food and gas prices, and taxes.

BK: If you could compare your job to a dish, what would it be?
I’d say a challenging dish like kaeng som (sour curry) because it’s all about finding a balance between flavors. Life is also about balancing career, family, friends and more—and it’s not easy.

BK: What’s your family situation?
It’s about as good and humble as it could be under the circumstances. My husband and I have a loving relationship so I consider myself lucky.

BK: What are your hopes for the future? Any advice for other khao gaeng vendors?
It would be bliss if I could have my own small restaurant. As for my fellow vendors, I would say don’t spend too much money on the underground lottery! Interview by Proudpisut Sang-ou-thai