Kanom Jeen, roadside Samui

Another spotting on the side of the road on the way into Lamai one morning was a little roadside noodle stand.  It was always busy, with not a seat to spare, but we're here extra early and must be the first to arrive.

We knew we'd be having some sort of noodles for breakfast, we just weren't sure what type. There's a little cabinet and a simmering pot which put together bowls of ba mi (yellow noodles) with shredded chicken, liver and wontons. But we spot the big bowl of fresh rice noodles and we both look at each other with those 'It's kanom jeen for breakfast, baby' eyes. She gives us a bowl filled with the fresh rice noodles. The rest of the goodies are to be found on the table.



There were 6 little pots, all filled with various pickles and curries, and then a giant plate with every Thai herb and vegetable imaginable. This is such a nice way to eat kanon jeen (I sometimes find the sauce a little to fishy for my liking, but it's usually swimming in a pile of it so there's no escaping it!) but this way we get to try a spoon full of each pickle and curry individually, having fun matching it up with some herb or vegetable.



I loved the thick, red, coconut based curry with fresh Thai basil leaves. I loved the mustard green and bean sprout pickle. I even loved the green curry of fish, a nice mild fish flavour and a delight when I was in control of the amount desired.

Another fine Thai breakfast, and a great start to the day!