CSR Project

Ban Phon Thai, a charming little village in Pho Si sub-district, Pho Chai district, Roi Et province, is a cultural tourism community with a vintage Isaan vibe. The village is home to the pristine white Wat Sawang Khongkha, where the revered Phra Phuttha Samanmit Mongkhon Khun Buddha image resides, beneath the ancient Samsa tree, which is over 200 years old—a tree of life that nurtures the spirits of the villagers. Standing tall, it warmly welcomes visitors to experience the peaceful rural lifestyle. Here, the respected village elders, known as Por Yai and Mae Yai, perform the traditional Bai Sri Su Kwan wrist-tying ceremony, offering a heartfelt blessing. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the local customs of the Heet 12, twelve sacred traditions celebrated throughout the year, all part of the joyful, simple life surrounded by the scent of the earth and rice fields. Villagers wear their Pha Khao Ma and handwoven cloths as they carry offerings to the monks, gather for serene chanting of Sarapanya, sit on woven mats for shared meals, and perform the traditional Kong Ka dance. The village continues to preserve its heritage through the weaving of sedge mats, crafting of intricately patterned cloth, mushroom farming, and making rice wine. Visitors can savor seasonal local dishes—culinary treasures that have been passed down through generations.

Mushroom Curry with Red Ant Eggs: A traditional dish from the Ban Phon Thai community that creatively and harmoniously uses natural ingredients. The key components—wild mushrooms and red ant eggs—are foraged locally and boiled in a fragrant curry broth over high heat to preserve their distinct flavors. This dish offers a sensory delight, with the earthy aroma of the curry paste, the tender texture of the mushrooms, and the rich, tangy taste of the red ant eggs combining to create a perfectly balanced flavor. This rare dish is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, as red ant eggs are a rare and seasonal ingredient, available only during specific times of the year. It reflects the wisdom of the Ban Phon Thai community, showcasing their skill in using natural ingredients to create hearty meals while preserving the authentic flavors of traditional Isaan cuisine.

Grilled Chicken with Red Ants: A unique dish where the secret lies in the tiny red ants, which local wisdom believes to be a natural energy booster. The chicken is marinated in traditional Isaan seasonings—chili, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, garlic, and shallots—all ground together. What makes this dish stand out is the gentle tartness added by marinating the chicken with red ants, which tenderizes the meat, making it incredibly succulent. Grilled over charcoal until golden, the chicken develops a crisp exterior while staying juicy inside. The charcoal grilling infuses a smoky aroma and a rich, bold flavor, highlighted by the subtle sourness from the red ants or their eggs. This dish combines local culinary traditions with a one-of-a-kind taste, making it a rare delicacy. At Ban Phon Thai, this dish continues to capture the charm, uniqueness, and time-honored way of life, offering a taste experience that is both distinctive and unforgettable, inviting everyone to come and savor it.