Ever wondered why your Gai Yang (Thai BBQ chicken) tastes so much better in rural Thailand?

To be specific, we’re talking about Isan (Isaan), north eastern Thailand where you’ll find the best Gai Yang on the planet. Why? Because it originates from here.

Similar to Som Tum (Papaya Salad), with its historic roots in Isan, Gai Yang - although found on the streets of Bangkok and all over Thailand (if not the world), is an export of Isan. 

It’s not all about the ingredients, more ethical and genuinely free-range farming, organic feed, marinade and cooking techniques - the organic charcoal (biochar) deserves a healthy share of the credit! 

As unique as the local forest environments, the charcoal is typically made from various agricultural waste such as Acacia, Rain Tree, Mango, Cassia and Neem woods. Coconut husks are also used. Zero waste. Imagine the aroma! Phwooar!

Grilling with charcoal is an inherent part of Isan food culture - an everyday part of life, and Isan communities have always made the best use of what nature provides locally to them. Sustainability isn’t a buzz word in Isan, it’s part of life. A tradition. It’s how Chef New grew up.

Chef New’s Uncle Murn produces 100% organic, chemical-free charcoal (biochar) the traditional way, using ancient techniques that have been around for centuries.

He’s produced it for decades and supplies countless homes, street food vendors and other local businesses in PakChong (Nakhon Ratchasima), and Chef New has been known to stuff bags of it in her suitcase for BBQ season. Yes! Gai Yang’s on the menu at our licensed branch in the Armada Avenue Hotel (JLT, Dubai) from mid October to end of May.

Chef New used to love helping out Uncle Murn when she was a kid. To her mum’s dismay, she’d get home looking a right mess, but she didn’t care because she’d had so much fun!

We’ll be showing you exactly how Uncle Murn makes his charcoal tomorrow, so stay tuned to our IG stories.

And, in soon-to-be-announced news we’ll also be taking some of you adventure-loving, serious foodies to Isan, back to where the Cafe Isan story began. Sound exciting? We guarantee it is.

Love as always,
Chef New & Lisa

Photos: Chef New 25/06/2023 - Pakchong, Nakonratchasima.