Laos may not be as globally famous for its cuisine as some of its neighbours, but that's precisely why it offers an authentic, unspoilt taste of Southeast Asia. A journey through Lao food is one of discovery, a path that leads you through a landscape of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavours, and a history woven into every dish. No trip or exploration of Laotian culture would be complete without delving into its culinary delights. Here's a guide to some unmissable dishes that every food lover needs to experience when in Laos.
The Staple of Laotian Cuisine: Sticky Rice
No discussion of Lao cuisine can begin without mentioning sticky rice, or 'khao niaw'. This glutinous delight is the staple of the Lao diet, so much so that the Lao people are sometimes referred to as “children of sticky rice”. Eaten with the fingers and used to scoop up other foods, sticky rice is more than just sustenance; it's a central part of the country's social fabric. This beloved carbohydrate is often steamed in bamboo baskets and served in quaint, woven baskets that keep it warm throughout the meal.
Experience a Burst of Flavours with Laap
Laap (also known as larb) is widely regarded as the national dish of Laos. It's a refreshing salad composed of minced meat – typically chicken, pork, beef, or fish – that's mixed with a blend of fresh herbs like mint and coriander, toasted ground rice, and a tangy dressing of fish sauce, lime juice, and chillies. This harmonious array of ingredients creates a complex flavour profile that is simultaneously spicy, sour, and savory. Laap is often served with vegetables and sticky rice, embraced as a dish that symbolizes good fortune.
Relish the Richness of Khao Poon
Khao poon, a vibrant, aromatic soup, reveals the depth of Lao culinary traditions. At its heart is a red curry coconut milk broth, simmered with chicken, fish, or pork, and infused with the essences of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. It's served over rice vermicelli noodles and can be garnished with a plethora of condiments such as bean sprouts, sliced cabbage, lime wedges, and a punchy, fiery Lao chilli paste known as 'jeow bong'. This dish is a testament to the complexity and richness that can be found in Lao soups, each spoonful a taste of the country's soul.
Indulge in the Simplicity of Tam Mak Hoong
Another cornerstone of the cuisine is the ubiquitous papaya salad, or 'tam mak hoong'. Although also found in Thai cuisine (where it is known as 'som tam'), the Laotian version packs a punch with its bold use of fermented fish sauce and crab, which is pounded in a mortar along with shredded green papaya, lime, sugar, chillies, and a variety of vegetables. It's typically enjoyed alongside grilled meat and sticky rice, and its fresh, fiery taste is as stimulating as the Lao landscape itself.
Savour an All-Day Delicacy with Khao Ji Pate
For a taste of French influence on Lao cuisine, try 'khao ji pate', a Lao-style sandwich. Reminiscent of the Vietnamese banh mi, this baguette is traditionally filled with pâté, mayonnaise, slices of ham or pork, shredded carrots, daikon, cucumber, cilantro, and often topped with fresh chillies. It's the perfect fusion of French and Lao flavours and textures, and an excellent quick meal or snack at any time of day.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Khao Tom Mud
Laos also offers delightful desserts, and ‘khao tom mud’ is a favourite. Sticky rice is mixed with bananas and black beans, sweetened with coconut milk and sugar, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until beautifully fragrant. This sweet snack represents the simplicity and resourcefulness of Lao cooking, utilising abundant local ingredients to create a small parcel of joy.
Discover Laos One Bite at a Time
Sampling the cuisine of Laos affords a sensory portal into the heart of the country. Every dish tells a story of tradition, community, and the Laotian affinity for the fresh, varied bounty of their land. Whether indulging in the robustness of a soup like khao poon, the lively crunch of a green papaya salad, or the sweet stickiness of a dessert like khao tom mud, the flavours of Laos are sure to linger with you long after your travels. So whisk your palette off to Southeast Asia and discover the unforgettable taste of Laos; it's a food adventure you won't want to miss.