I've been tracking down food supplies. Specifically, foods with buzz words that throw some people off (organic, fair trade, free range) but for me generally imply better quality. I think farmers should get paid fairly for what they do, and I also want to eat the best food that I possibly can. Or serve it for that matter. And what I've found here in Thailand is a very active network of farmers, provincial green markets, community organizers and food advocates that are starting what seems like a movement. There's so much to share on the subject, and soon I will.
Above is a photo of some wonderfully chewy and nutty organic jasmine grown in a village just outside of Yasothorn, in Thailand's Northeast. Yaso, as most locals call it, is a bit of a hub for organic rice producers. Last year, I went there to write about rockets, food and a fantastic festival (a feature on that event comes out soon, maybe even today, in DestinAsian). This spring, I'll return to Yaso, to track down heirloom rice varieties and hang out with local farmers who have returned to traditional agricultural practices. I'll share with you here, and at The Atlantic, as I go. I'm excited about this new aspect of my business, which is beginning to take shape.