Like many Thai immigrants, my family’s work in the restaurant service industry was the primary reason they were able to integrate into American life.

As soon as the caramel reaches 285°, carefully stir in the baking soda mixture; the caramel will foam and bubble up..Immediately pour the caramel into the melted peanut butter mixture and, using a heatproof spatula, fold together as quickly as possible.

You want the mixtures to be combined but not homogenized; the candy will come together very fast..Immediately scrape the hot candy into the prepared pan and press into a flat, even layer.Peel off the foil and cut the candy into squares.. Make Ahead.

Cut or uncut, the candy can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks..4. medium or large orange-fleshed sweet potatoes.

Build a large wood fire in a pit or a charcoal fire in a kettle grill.

(If using a grill, remove the cooking grate, and set it aside while positioning the sweet potatoes.)Place skillet over pancake and, holding plate and skillet firmly together, invert pancake into skillet, pork side down.

Cook over medium until pork is browned and pancake is heated through, about 10 minutes.. Invert okonomiyaki onto plate, pork side up.Brush or drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce, and dollop or drizzle with mayonnaise.

Sprinkle with ground bonito flakes, beni shoga, and nori.Cut into wedges, and serve immediately.. Victor Protasio.