Key Takeaways
Discovering Native Sweet Treats of Chanthaburi
A Unique Culinary Experience in Ban Nong Bua
Located just 10 kilometers south of Chanthaburi, Thailand, lies the charming community of Ban Nong Bua. This centuries-old community is famous for its native sweet treats, which are sourced from Chinese descendants who have settled in the area. Known as Chumchon Khanom Plaek, this community has become a popular tourist attraction since the reopening of its market in 2016. Visitors are drawn to the unusual snacks and the ambience of the community’s old wooden shophouses.
The Expansion of Ban Nong Bua Market
Ban Nong Bua market started with a modest beginning, with only 15 food stalls set up in front of some shophouses. However, it has rapidly expanded over the years and is now a bustling walking street that boasts more than 130 stalls. The market offers a wide variety of snacks and desserts, but the highlight is undoubtedly the famous khanom khuay ling, which translates to “penis of the monkey” in English.
The Origins of Khanom Khuay Ling
The story behind the peculiar name of khanom khuay ling dates back more than a century ago. The snack was created by the family of Mali Thueakkaew, who used black glutinous flour to make a cylindrical-shaped treat. The dough is then boiled in water before being covered with fresh coconut shreds. Initially, the snack had no name, but after distributing it to their neighbors, a name was needed. Legend has it that their ancestors named the snack after witnessing a long-tailed macaque showing its penis while sitting next to the cooking station, begging for dessert. What may have started as a family joke has now become the signature dish of Ban Nong Bua.
Other Unusual Treats to Try
Apart from khanom khuay ling, there are several other weirdly named desserts that are worth trying in Ban Nong Bua. One such delicacy is khanom tid kho, which translates to “a dessert that sticks in your throat.” This snack consists of boiled black glutinous rice served with a mixture of ground peanuts and cane sugar. Other must-try snacks include khanom e-nam yiao wua, a unique version of bua loy (sticky rice flour), served in cane sugar syrup instead of coconut milk, khanom talum (coconut pudding topped with egg custard), and khanom tang kuay (rice snack mixed with sesame seeds and dried winter melon).
Explore the Local Food Scene
Apart from the native sweet treats, Ban Nong Bua also offers a range of savory dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. One popular dish is kuaytiao khon chon, a noodle dish served in shrimp soup. Another delicacy is muk tom nam aoy, boiled squid in cane sugar soup. For seafood lovers, khao khluk phrik kluea is a must-try dish. It consists of boiled rice topped with parboiled shrimps, squid, fish, boiled egg, and seafood sauce, locally known as phrik kluea in Chanthaburi.
Immerse Yourself in Ban Nong Bua’s Heritage
While visiting Ban Nong Bua, don’t forget to take a stroll through the old wooden shophouses that are open to the public. These historic buildings offer a glimpse into the community’s rich heritage and are a testament to its enduring charm. Exploring the shophouses is like stepping back in time, allowing visitors to experience the traditional way of life in this unique part of Thailand.
How to Get to Ban Nong Bua
To reach Ban Nong Bua, start from the city of Chanthaburi and drive approximately 10 kilometers on No 3348. Then, turn right onto 200 Pi Road and follow the signs that lead to the community. The Bang Nong Bua Walking Street is open during weekends from 9 am to 5 pm, providing ample time for visitors to explore and indulge in the local delicacies.
In conclusion, Ban Nong Bua in Chanthaburi offers a one-of-a-kind culinary experience for visitors seeking to discover unique sweet treats. From the famous khanom khuay ling to other weirdly named desserts, this community’s market is a haven for food enthusiasts. Additionally, the savory dishes and the opportunity to explore the old wooden shophouses further add to the allure of Ban Nong Bua. So, if you’re looking to embark on a gastronomic adventure while immersing yourself in Thai heritage, be sure to visit Ban Nong Bua and indulge in the native sweet treats of Chanthaburi.
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