Khon sawan: The atmosphere at the roadside market selling forest products along the Kaeng Khro-Chaiyaphum road was bustling. Villagers brought fresh vegetables and forest products to sell along both sides of the road, especially the rare "Lemongrass Mushroom," a prized item available only once a year, which fetches a high price of 600 baht per kilogram.
According to Thai News Agency, the market along the Kaeng Khro-Chaiyaphum road in Khon Sawan District, Chaiyaphum Province, sees a constant flow of locals and tourists stopping by to purchase these natural ingredients. The Lemongrass Mushroom, with its unique aroma and flavor, is particularly sought after for its use in curries, stir-fries, or chili paste. Despite the high cost, it sells out daily due to its limited availability during the rainy season.
Furthermore, the market offers other forest products such as bitter honey mushrooms, white wood mushrooms, and the renowned "wild ginger flowers" of Chaiyaphum. These are sold at affordable prices ranging from 10-20 baht per bunch, and can be enjoyed blanched and dipped in chili sauce. This trade in forest goods provides villagers with crucial supplementary income, sometimes amounting to several hundred to a thousand baht per day.
Local vendors explain that selling forest products is a long-standing tradition, especially during the rainy season when wild mushrooms flourish. By collecting these mushrooms and seasonal vegetables, villagers can significantly boost their family income, earning several hundred baht or more depending on their harvest.