Bang Bo Gourami Fish

Bang Bo Gourami Fish: From Ban Rakat Canal to the Legendary World-Class Delicious Gourami

Hello, I'm mr.hotsia. Today, I will take you back to my hometown inBang Bo District, Samut Prakan Provincewhere the famous Bang Bo Gourami Fish originated and became the most delicious gourami legend in Thailand, known worldwide. The uniqueness of Bang Bo Gourami is not by chance but comes from the lifestyle of Bang Bo villagers who have been connected to Samrong Canal and rice fields since childhood.

I grew up by Ban Rakat Canal, a small branch of Samrong Canal, the main canal of Bang Bo used for raising gourami fish. I used to swim and dive to catch fish with my friends as a child. This is the starting point that made me truly understand and love Bang Bo Gourami.

Lifestyle and Gourami Fish Farming in Bang Bo

In the past, Bang Bo was a lowland area where most villagers farmed rice. I also helped my family farm rice and raise fish in ponds calledTin Nawhich are located at the lowest points of the rice fields. Additionally, ponds were dug around the fields to provide habitat and natural food for the gourami fish. I vividly remember the old practice of draining gourami ponds. The fish would jump in large numbers and had to be caught quickly before being processed into salted gourami and fermented fish sauce to preserve for the whole year.

What makes Bang Bo Gourami famous is the brackish water of Samrong Canal, ideal for the growth of red plankton, the favorite food of gourami fish. This makes the fish plump and fat, unlike gourami raised elsewhere, which may be smaller and less fatty.

Two Types of Bang Bo Gourami Fish and What You Need to Know

There are two main types of Bang Bo Gourami:Pla Hom (Fragrant Gourami)andRegular GouramiThe difference lies in the fermentation and sun-drying process. Pla Hom is allowed to die until the flesh turns milky white before salting and fermenting, then sun-dried until completely dry. This process gives the fish a unique aroma that many people love, though some may find the smell strong. Regular gourami is salted and sun-dried immediately without waiting for the flesh to die first. From my perspective and that of true Bang Bo locals, only Pla Hom can be called authentic Bang Bo Gourami.

When buying Bang Bo Gourami from markets or roadside vendors, I recommend asking specifically for Pla Hom to get fish processed traditionally with the delicious taste I have enjoyed since childhood. However, commonly sold gourami may not be fully sun-dried or fermented like Pla Hom, so they are often less tasty and do not keep as long as the genuine ones.

Where to Buy Authentic Bang Bo Gourami Recommended by mr.hotsia

If you want authentic Bang Bo Gourami, you must visit Bang Bo District itself. Bang Bo Market is a hub for high-quality gourami, especially shops I know well and confidently guarantee their deliciousness, such asPla Salid Ja JoJa Jo is an old neighbor from Ban Rakat. There is alsoYai Yaoat Bang Bo Market, and the largest shop known nationwide by gourami lovers isJe Kuilocated at the neck of the bridge crossing Samrong Canal. This shop supplies gourami to Tha Tian and various markets across the country.

To choose good gourami, check the fat in the belly called "Bua"; it should not be broken. The flesh must be firm and not mushy. Pressing it should feel solid. Avoid fish with soft flesh or a bad smell.

Connecting Local Lifestyle and Markets with Bang Bo Gourami

If you are interested in the lifestyle along the canals and historic markets in Samut Prakan, I, mr.hotsia, recommend visitingThe 150-Year-Old Bang Phli Old Marketwhich is not far from Bang Bo. Here you will see traces of a canal-side market that still retains the atmosphere of an old community relying on waterways, just like my hometown in Bang Bo.

Also, if you enjoy fun experiences and want to deeply understand the lifestyle of Bang Bo people, don't miss the storyFishing for 'Ai Ngo' with Mr. Hotsia On Tour in Bang Bowhere I personally caught 'Ai Ngo' fish in Ban Rakat Canal. The atmosphere and experience will help you better understand the basics of gourami farming and the Bang Bo community.

Bang Bo Gourami and the Pride of the Locals