When Pancakes Are Not Enough
View From Living Room I came downstairs expecting a Hmong breakfast but found pancakes instead. “Interesting,” I thought looking around the living room. I could have sworn I smelled the nutty scent of cooked rice creeping up the staircase earlier this morning. Turning into the kitchen, I realized I was correct. The homestay family had prepared rice with an assortment of colorful side dishes. Except, it wasn’t for the guests. “The pancakes are for you,” my tour guide said, motioning to the living room door. “Thank you, but can I eat here?” I asked, pointing to the mosaic of prepared meats and vegetables on the kitchen table. She smiled but shook her head, gesturing me to leave the kitchen and join my friend outside. Disappointed, I trudged to the dining table that held our morning feast. The pancakes weren't the fluffy monstrosities you see in the states. They were thinner and denser, like Russian blini. Accompanying the pancakes were a plate of Thai bana...