Contributor:
Yarinda Srisutat (Kim)
Life can get pretty hectic, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. At our office, we understand how important it is to find ways to relax, recharge, and connect with others. That’s why we started offering Thai cooking classes as part of our mental health wellness activities. These classes are a chance to learn how to make delicious Thai dishes, de-stress, and have fun experiences with others.
Cooking as Therapy
Cooking is more than just making a meal—it’s an activity that can help you unwind and stay in the moment. It’s hands-on, engaging, and gives you something to focus on other than the stresses of everyday life. In our Thai cooking classes, participants forget their worries for a little while, focus on preparing a dish and share the joy of cooking with others. It’s a simple but effective way to boost mental well-being.
Why Nam Prik Ong?
Nam Prik Ong is a popular dish from Northern Thailand, known for its bold, fresh flavors. Made from ground pork or chicken, tomatoes, and a mix of Thai herbs and spices, this chili dip is often enjoyed with fresh veggies and sticky rice. It’s a straightforward and rewarding dish to make, which is why we chose it for our class.
The ingredients in Nam Prik Ong—like garlic, chilies, and shallots—not only taste great but also offer health benefits. Garlic, for instance, helps boost your immune system, while chilies can lift your mood by releasing feel-good endorphins. The dish’s perfect blend of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors also reminds us that balance is key in life, too.
Our Nam Prik Ong Class Experience
Our recent cooking class featuring Nam Prik Ong was a hit. Two of our friends from Myanmar visited us and joined the activity. We started with a brief introduction to the dish and its roots in Northern Thailand. Everyone was excited to learn more than just the recipe—they were eager to hear about its cultural significance and how it brings people together as a shared meal and the room filled with the fragrant smell of herbs, spices and laughter.
After everyone finished making their Nam Prik Ong, we decided to spice things up with a friendly food competition. Each team proudly presented their dish, and we all became instant food critics—tasting, nodding thoughtfully, and pretending to be professional chefs. It was all in good fun, and the pressure was on!
The grand prize? A pack of Korean instant noodles! Because nothing says “culinary achievement” quite like winning… more cooking! The competition was fierce, with everyone vying for the ultimate noodle glory. In the end, one team emerged victorious, taking home the prize—and bragging rights, of course.
Who knew that after mastering a Thai dish, instant Korean ramen could taste like sweet victory?
Best,
Yarinda (A former APCOM finance officer)
