Ratchaburi's Dish of the Week: Hand-Rolled Meatballs Charcoal Grilled, Delicious and Fresh with Charcoal Aroma, Affordable Prices
Hand-rolled pork meatballs charcoal-grilled outside Nong Pla Mao temple in Ratchaburi offer authentic flavor and smoky aroma at just 10 baht per stick, with a buy-10-get-1-free promotion. The family business started with resourcefulness and
Ratchaburi's featured dish of the week showcases traditional hand-rolled pork meatballs charcoal grilled—delicious, fresh, not gamey, and fragrant with charcoal smoke—priced affordably at 10 baht per stick with a special promotion of buy 10 get 1 free.
Ms. Sirikanjana Kunyanawashin from Nong Pla Mao subdistrict in Ban Pong district, Ratchaburi, hand-rolls approximately 10 kilograms of pork meatballs daily using traditional techniques. Her husband, Abhisit Sinseangium, operates a charcoal-grilled stand outside Nong Pla Mao temple. The meatballs' delicious, fresh taste and charcoal aroma attract steady daily customers, providing reliable family income.
According to Sirikanjana, the meatball-rolling technique requires kneading cold pork thoroughly before shaping to ensure uniform size. She uses a spoon to drop them into gently simmered water, then increases heat once the pot is full while continuously stirring so the meatballs float evenly and cook through with a distinct pork aroma.
The key to tender, evenly-cooked meatballs is patience and skill developed over months of practice. Proper technique is crucial during the simmering stage—using high heat causes uneven cooking, deformation, and hardened or torn surfaces.
Abhisit previously worked in a meatball factory but left due to health issues and struggled with various business attempts until having only 500 baht remaining from his mother. With limited capital, he invested in fresh pork and repurposed kitchen equipment—a pot and gas stove—to make hand-rolled meatballs, avoiding expensive commercial equipment costs.
He learned traditional meatball techniques through YouTube and tested his product at local merit ceremonies. After receiving positive feedback, he converted a motorcycle into a sidecar stand with a charcoal grill, which reduced costs while providing distinctive charcoal smoke aroma. He scores the meatballs before grilling to ensure deep, even heat penetration.
Abhisit credits his mother's support for helping him persevere through difficult economic times. Resourcefulness with available materials enabled him to create this meatball business. Interested customers can visit the stand outside Nong Pla Mao temple from afternoon until evening, then at the C.J. convenience store branch in Nong Pla Mao in the evening. Prices are 10 baht per stick (buy 10 get 1 free). For inquiries, call 0659832295.
