Introduction

Thai food is known around the world for its vibrant flavors, fragrant herbs, and beautiful balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy tastes. In Thailand, cooking is not just about preparing a meal — it is about sharing love, tradition, and family.

In many Thai homes, recipes are passed down from one generation to another. Grandmothers teach their children and grandchildren how to cook by memory, by taste, and by heart. Measurements are often guided by experience rather than strict rules, and every dish carries a story.

This cookbook, Grandma Ome Thai Kitchen, is inspired by the warmth of a traditional Thai family kitchen. The recipes in this book reflect the simple and authentic way Thai food is prepared at home. Fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and natural ingredients are at the heart of every dish.

Inside this book, you will find a collection of beloved Thai recipes, from comforting soups and rich curries to fresh salads and flavorful stir-fried dishes. Each recipe is designed to be approachable and enjoyable for home cooks, whether you are new to Thai cooking or already familiar with its delicious flavors.

My hope is that these recipes will bring the spirit of Thai home cooking into your kitchen. May the aromas of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, basil, and coconut milk fill your home with warmth and joy.

Thank you for cooking with Grandma Ome.

About Grandma Ome

Grandma Ome loves cooking and sharing Thai food with family and friends. For her, the kitchen has always been a place of warmth, comfort, and happiness.

Growing up in Thailand, she learned many traditional recipes from family members and from everyday life in the kitchen. Thai cooking is not only about following a recipe, but also about tasting, adjusting, and cooking with care.

Over the years, Grandma Ome has continued to prepare meals for loved ones, using fresh herbs, simple ingredients, and time-honored techniques. Many of these dishes have been enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions.

Through this book, Grandma Ome Thai Kitchen, she hopes to share the joy of Thai home cooking with readers around the world.

May these recipes bring delicious flavors, warm memories, and the spirit of Thai hospitality into your kitchen

My History

My name is Yupaporn Sagers, and my nickname is Ome. I was born in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand.

When I was five years old, my mother passed away. Five years later, my father also passed away. After that my grandmother raised me. She was a strong and loving woman who taught me how to take care of myself, work hard, and cook with patience and heart. From her, I learned that food is not only nourishment, but also a way to care for others.

I enjoyed studying and learning new things. After finishing seven grade, I moved to Sakon Nakhon to continue my education. I worked hard and saved money so I could keep learning. I later studied at Sakon Nakhon Rajabhat University, and during that time I also took cooking classes.

In 1974, I graduated from collage and became a school teacher. I taught for 24 years. Teaching gave my life purpose, and truly enjoyed guiding my students.

That same year I married Swat Noohuong. As part of daily family life, I cooked and welcomed guests into our home. My mother-in-law was an excellent cook, and I learned many traditional Thai recipes from her. These experiences deepened my love for Thai home cooking.

As our children grew up and left home, I felt ready for a new challenge. In 1996, I opened a Thai restaurant in my hometown. Later, my daughter Melissa helped me begin a new chapter, and I immigrated to the United States.

In May 2006my husband Swat Noohuong passed away from liver cancer. Losing him was one of the most difficult moments of my life.

In December 2014, I married Sidney Sagers, and together we built a new live in America. After our marriage, I moved to Nampa, Idaho, where I learned more about American life and continued sharing Thai food with family, friends and neighbors.

In January 2023, we moved to Cedar city, Utah. There I began teaching Thai cooking classes at my home. Through these classes, I met many people who wanted to learn authentic Thai recipes. That is when I decided to create this cookbook.

This book is not only a collection of recipes. It is my journey and the love of Thai home cooking that I continue to share.

Sincerely,

Grandma Ome