Turning the bamboo shortage crisis into an opportunity, a new type of khao lam made with coconut shells has been launched. After just six days, the shop has seen strong demand, with customers flocking in faster than production can keep up. The product features a rich, fragrant aroma from charcoal grilling and is topped generously, all priced at only 40 baht.
It has become a trending new shop in Sa Kaeo Province—"Gorto Coconut Shell Khao Lam"—located along the outbound side of Suwannason Road in Sala Lamduan Subdistrict, Mueang District. After just six days since opening, the shop is packed with customers.
Ms. Supaporn Boonsang, also known as Koi, 31, the owner, revealed that the inspiration to switch from traditional bamboo tube khao lam to using coconut shells came from the scarcity and rising cost of bamboo tubes. She experimented with aromatic coconut shells as containers, which not only lowered raw material costs but also added value and a unique character to this traditional dessert, making it more appealing.
The distinctiveness of Gorto's coconut shell khao lam lies in its meticulous production process. Sticky rice—both white and black—is steamed until fragrant and cooked, then mixed with freshly grated coconut and a rich coconut milk recipe. It is then packed into coconut shells and grilled over charcoal for 15 to 30 minutes, imparting a unique aromatic flavor that differs from conventional oven baking.
Additionally, the shop offers toppings to enhance the flavor, such as golden threads (foi thong), candied sweet potatoes, toddy palm, water chestnuts, taro, and young coconut, all priced at 40 baht per piece, allowing customers to choose three toppings.
Supaporn added that since officially opening, daily production has surged from 150 pieces to over 400 pieces, with a continuing upward trend. This success exceeded expectations. Those wishing to try it can visit the shop along the outbound side of Suwannason Road, Sala Lamduan Subdistrict, Mueang District, Sa Kaeo Province, open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or until sold out. For inquiries, call 062-236-5074.
