I love Thai dishes, who doesn’t? Being Filipino American, I found Thai dishes have a lot of similarities to Filipino food. For example, they use fish sauce to add flavor to most of the dishes. Like in Thailand, their Satay is the Filipino style barbecue only bigger in size. Thai fried fish is served mostly with heads which is the same with Philippine food. Another similarity? Thai’s Tom Yum Goong is the equivalent of Philippine Sinigang sour soup.
I learned of Pepper Teigen in the Bloggers who Brunch newsletter. I found out she is launching her own cookbook. It was a no brainer to check it out. I don’t cook much but I love to eat Thai food and love going to celeb book signings. I was so stoked to attend the event as this was my first celeb event after the pandemic. The event was held on May 7 at the Platform LA in Culver City. NOODS x Pepper Thai MILF (Mother I’d Like to Feed) in collaboration with An’s Famous Garlic Noodles (Anqi and Crustacean) and signature recipes from The Pepper Thai Cookbook.
The launching event was very organized. As I arrived at the Platform park, I noticed Pepper’s books on display for purchasing. After registering, security directed me to the table. I was greeted by Thai dancers showcasing the cultural Thai dance in their native costume with contemporary music played by the DJ. And there was Pepper with her megawatt smile, ready for a photo-op with the attendees. Pepper was personable, vibrant and down to earth. Once you meet her you feel you’ve known her forever. I had a chance to ask her a couple questions.
Ruchel: What made you decide to publish a cookbook?
Pepper: Chrissy pushed me (chuckles) and she loves my food and she wanted to have it written down. I finally did it and I’m so happy I did it.
Ruchel: What was that memorable moment putting this together?
Pepper: I almost burned the house down when we tried to cook sausage.
After having a chat and photo with her, I went to pick up my food. I was blown away by how the food was presented from Noods: fresh, tasty and excellent packaging. Prior to the event, when you register you get to pick the food you want (BYOB – build your own box). I had the following:
- Original Noods (An’s famous garlic noodles)
- Larb Sliders
- Luna’s Beef with Broccoli
- Hot Basil Eggplant w/ Impossible Meat
- Green Papaya Salad
- Mango Sticky Rice
As a bonus, I met An herself (Founder of Crustacean, Anqi and now Noods).
It was a delightful experience in an alfresco setting, the weather was great and the food was delish. As they say, “save the best for last”, I got to meet the A list couple Chrissy Teigen and John Legend who gave their support to Pepper’s book launch. They were so friendly with the attendees.
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