The star ingredient in this simple Thai dish is grilled pork, most commonly grilled pork neck (ko mu yang). Before grilling, the meat is usually marinated in a flavorful combination of fish sauce, palm sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, and Thai whiskey.

The dish is usually served with rice, fresh vegetables, or salads on the side. Apart from various sides, mu yang is always accompanied by a bowl of jaew dipping sauce.