The Art of Culinary Harmony: Chef Aom's Notes on Khaan's Tasting Menu

In the latest interview with Chef Aom, Sujira Pongmorn, Chef-owner of Khaan Bangkok we have unveiled a mesmerizing insights through her culinary journey. With captivating candor, Chef Aom illuminated the profound influence of her family, whose teachings sculpted her culinary philosophy. Each revelation painted a vivid portrait of passion and dedication, showcasing Chef Aom's unwavering commitment to crafting unforgettable dining experiences. From the pivotal moments that sparked the inception of Khaan to her relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence, every word resonated with the vibrant energy that defines her culinary ethos.

What is the pivotal moments that led you to start your new chapter with Khaan?

The decision to embark on the new chapter with KHAAN stemmed from my desire to pursue what I genuinely love, fueled by a period of rest and rejuvenation. It's about sharing the culinary treasures I've discovered on my journey, reinterpreted through my unique vision. KHAAN represents a canvas where my culinary explorations come to life, offering guests a taste of my experiences, transformed by personal flair and creativity.

Family often plays a crucial role in shaping one's identity and career choices. How has the support from your father and aunt impacted the decision to pursue a career in the culinary industry?

My culinary journey has been profoundly influenced by my father and aunt, who have been pivotal in shaping my career. My father ignited my passion for cooking, teaching me the foundations and inspiring me to explore the culinary world. My aunt, on the other hand, instilled in me the creativity and innovation in dish creation, using leftovers to craft new, delightful meals. This practice of transforming leftovers into gourmet dishes embodies the concept of “zero waste,” a principle that guides my cooking philosophy today.

What is the inspiration to combine street food accessibility with a high-end tasting menu?

The foundation of KHAAN lies in blending the accessibility of street food with the sophistication of a high-end tasting menu, a milestone that catalyzed the concept of our restaurant. My creations begin with dishes close to my heart, ranging from the humblest street food to regal fare, always highlighting local ingredients and techniques. My commitment to learning—be it traditional Thai cuisine or modern methods—never wanes, as continuous improvement is key to presenting the rich tapestry of Thai flavors in a new light, preserving their essence while introducing a unique rhythm and melody to the dining experience.

The tasting menu at Khaan is described as evoking the harmonious and precise sounds of a musical performance. What sparked the idea to integrate this unique sensory experience into your menu?

The inception of KHAAN's unique sensory experience is deeply personal. The name 'KHAAN' not only references my birth year, the Year of the Tiger or “Pee Khaan,” but also signifies the art of verbal expression—speaking, singing, and proclaiming. This duality reflects my approach to cuisine: a symphony of flavors, temperatures, and textures, each dish telling a story, inviting guests to experience the rhythm and melody of my culinary narrative.

Among dishes on the menu, please share with us one dish that best represents the spirit of Khaan

The essence of my culinary vision is best encapsulated by our signature crab dish, featuring paddy field crab paired with grilled sticky rice. This dish symbolizes my identity: a blend of local traditions and modern interpretations, rich in flavor and rooted in Thai culinary heritage. It's a favorite among both Thai and international guests, embodying my aspiration to elevate Thai street food to an exquisite fine dining experience.

“To transform Thai street food into an unparalleled fine dining experience, marrying new cooking techniques with traditional recipes.”

Sujira ‘Aom’ Pongmorn

- Chef-owner of Khaan Bangkok

As Khaan continues to evolve, are there any plans or updates you can share about the restaurant's future?

Moving forward, my focus remains on the evolution of KHAAN, continuously innovating and creating new dishes that enchant and inspire, every day anew.