Nam had always eaten the same kind of lunch—rice with chicken soup—at her school canteen. One day, her friend, Som, suggested trying something different. Som recommended khao soi, a northern Thai noodle dish with curry broth. Nam had never tasted it before, so she was a bit hesitant.

During lunch break, the two girls walked to a small stall just outside the school gate. The vendor smiled and poured the fragrant curry soup over crispy and soft noodles, topping it with fresh lime, shallots, and pickled cabbage. Nam’s mouth watered at the sight of it.

At first bite, she felt the warm, spicy broth. She loved the combination of textures from the crunchy noodles and creamy coconut curry. Som laughed when she saw Nam’s surprised face. “I told you it was delicious!” she said.

Nam finished the entire bowl quickly. Even though her mouth burned slightly from the spices, she wanted more. After school, Nam told her mother about her new favorite dish. Her mother smiled, promising to cook khao soi at home one weekend, so Nam could enjoy it again.

That day, Nam realized that being open to new flavors could be an exciting adventure—even if it came with a bit of spice!