Culinary Guide: What to Eat in Laos

1. Laap (Larb): Laotian Salad

Laap, also known as Larb, is perhaps the most iconic dish in Laos. Often referred to as Laotian-style tartare, Laap is made with minced meat (usually pork, chicken, or beef) mixed with fresh herbs such as mint, cilantro, and green onions, seasoned with lime juice, fish sauce, and chili. It’s typically served with sticky rice and a side of fresh vegetables, offering a refreshing and zesty experience.

Where to try it: Available at almost every local eatery in Laos, particularly during festivals and celebrations.

2. Tam Mak Houng (Green Papaya Salad)

A beloved dish in Laos, Tam Mak Houng is a spicy green papaya salad that combines fresh papaya, carrots, tomatoes, and herbs. The ingredients are pounded together in a mortar and mixed with chili, garlic, lime, and fish sauce to create a tangy, spicy, and refreshing salad. Often, shrimp or crispy fried pork skin is added for extra flavor and crunch.

Where to try it: Street food stalls across Laos, especially in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

3. Mok Pa (Laotian-Style Fish Foil)

Mok Pa is a traditional dish made with fish, typically caught from the Mekong River, seasoned with aromatic herbs such as lemongrass, lime leaves, and garlic. The fish is then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection, preserving all the flavors while keeping the dish healthy and light. Mok Pa is often served with a side of sticky rice.

Where to try it: Local restaurants along the Mekong River or in rural villages.

4. Khao Poun (Spicy Rice Vermicelli Soup)

Khao Poun is a flavorful rice vermicelli soup that features a coconut milk curry base, often cooked with chicken, pork, or fish. It’s seasoned with herbs like lemongrass, mint, and galangal, and typically served with fresh vegetables, chili, and lime. The dish is comforting and aromatic, making it perfect for any meal of the day, especially breakfast.

Where to try it: Popular in the capital city of Vientiane and other central regions of Laos.

5. Or Lam (Laotian Stew)

Originating from Luang Prabang, Or Lam is a rich and spicy beef or pork stew made with a mix of herbs and spices like chili, lemongrass, and garlic. The stew is cooked with a thick, aromatic broth and often includes vegetables like bamboo shoots and mushrooms. It’s a hearty dish that’s both sweet and savory.

Where to try it: Best served at traditional restaurants in Luang Prabang.

6. Kaipen (Fried Seaweed)

Kaipen is a unique snack made from river algae found in northern Laos. The seaweed is dried and then quickly fried to create a crispy, savory treat. Often served as a snack with a cold beer, Kaipen is a healthy and crunchy option for those wanting to try something a little different.

Where to try it: Found at street food stalls and local markets in northern Laos.

7. Khao Jee (Grilled Sticky Rice)

Khao Jee, or grilled sticky rice, is a popular street food in Laos. The sticky rice is molded around a stick and grilled over an open flame. Sometimes an egg is added for extra richness. This simple yet flavorful dish is often enjoyed as a snack or accompaniment to other Laotian dishes.

Where to try it: Available at markets and food stalls throughout Laos.

8. Sai Oua (Laotian Sausage)

Sai Oua is a flavorful, aromatic sausage made with minced pork, lemongrass, garlic, chili, and other herbs. It’s usually grilled to achieve a smoky, crispy texture on the outside, while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. This dish is perfect for those who love bold, spicy flavors.

Where to try it: Street food stalls and local eateries in northern Laos.

9. Ping Gai (Laotian Roast Chicken)

Ping Gai is a Laotian-style roasted chicken that is marinated with a mixture of fish sauce, turmeric, garlic, and lemongrass before being grilled over an open flame. The chicken is flavorful and tender, with a deliciously crispy skin. It’s often served with a side of sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce.

Where to try it: Popular at street food stalls and BBQ restaurants in Laos.

10. Sien Savanh (Laotian Dried Beef)

Sien Savanh is a traditional Laotian snack made from thinly sliced beef that’s been seasoned with black pepper, garlic, and ginger, then dried under the sun. The result is a smoky, flavorful dried beef that pairs perfectly with beer. It’s a popular snack for locals and visitors alike.

Where to try it: Available in local markets and snack shops across Laos.

11. Khao Niew (Steamed Sticky Rice)

Sticky rice is a staple in Laotian cuisine, often served with many of the dishes mentioned above. It’s steamed to a chewy consistency and pairs perfectly with spicy, tangy dishes like Laap and Or Lam. Khao Niew is an essential part of the Laotian dining experience.

Where to try it: Available at nearly every restaurant and food stall in Laos.

Conclusion

Laos offers a diverse and rich culinary experience, with dishes that combine fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and traditional cooking techniques. From savory grilled sausages to fragrant soups and refreshing salads, Laotian cuisine is a journey in itself, and every dish offers a unique taste of the country's culture and history.