Ep 8. On the Tip of my Krueng

Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi is a television show that explores the diverse food cultures found throughout the United States. In season 2, episode 8, titled "On the Tip of my Krueng," Padma travels to the state of Minnesota to explore the vibrant and rich food culture of the Hmong community.

The episode takes viewers on a journey through the history and traditions of the Hmong people, who were forced to flee their homeland in Laos after the Vietnam War. Many of them settled in the United States, and Minnesota has one of the largest Hmong populations in the country.

Padma begins her journey in the vibrant Hmong markets of St. Paul, where she meets with local chefs and home cooks who share their delicious and unique recipes with her. She learns about the importance of ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and krueng, a Hmong spice blend that is used in many dishes. The host also learns about Hmong street food and the popular dish of papaya salad.

Throughout her journey, Padma also meets with Hmong elders who share their experiences of moving to the United States and the challenges they faced while trying to preserve their cultural traditions. She learns about the importance of farming and the role it plays in Hmong culture, as well as the deep connection between Hmong food and the natural world.

Through her conversations with members of the Hmong community, Padma also explores some of the cultural tensions that exist within the community, particularly between older and younger generations. She also considers the ways in which Hmong food has been adapted and modified to suit American tastes.

Overall, "On the Tip of my Krueng" offers a rich and nuanced exploration of the diverse and vibrant food culture of the Hmong community in Minnesota. Padma's travels and conversations shed light on the complexities and richness of this unique cuisine and the people who create it. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in food, culture, and the stories behind the dishes we love.