Tucked away between Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China and Myanmar, Laos is a landlocked gem that often falls under the radar of Southeast Asia’s culinary spotlight. Yet for those who venture off the beaten path, Laos offers a treasure trove of flavours that are packed with earthiness, aroma, and also deeply rooted in the traditions of the region. Laos cuisine is a beautiful reflection of the country’s lush landscapes and vibrant culture, where sticky rice reigns supreme and meals are shared communally, radiating a sense of warmth and ritual.
From the bustling streets stalls of Vietnam to the tranquil riverside eateries in Luang Prabang, traditional Laos food boasts of a rich tapestry intertwined with flavours of bold herbs, fermented ingredients, and savoury spice. A cuisine where every bite has a unique story to tell, Laos cuisine reflects upon ancient customs, seasonal harvests, and the Lao philosophy of kin khao, which means eating rice, as the heart of daily life. Whether you are savouring a tang of freshly made larb, enjoying the crunch of riverweed crisps, or sipping a rich, aromatic broth, Laos dishes promise you a sensory experience that is at once comforting and excitingly unfamiliar. So, if you are someone wondering what to eat in Laos, here’s your guide to some of the must try delicacies from the Laotian cuisine.
Dive into the unforgettable flavours of Laos, with the best dishes to try
1. Larb (Laap)
Among the top traditional Laos food that boasts of the zesty soul of Laos, Larb is often hailed as the national dish of the region. A vibrant and herb packed minced meat salad that bursts with citrusy brightness and earthy complexity, Larb is typically made with chicken, pork, duck or fish. The proteins are tossed with toasted rice powder, lime juice, fish sauce, fresh mint and fiery chillies, and served at room temperature while being paired with sticky rice. A dish that is the best of Laotian cuisine, Larb is a celebration of balance between flavours of spicy, sour, salty and savoury. Largely consumed by the natives of the region during special occasions and festive gatherings, having Larb is believed to bring luck and prosperity.
2. Khao Poon
A spicy noodle soup that warms the soul, Khao Poon is a Laos Thai food. Prepared with shredded meat, vermicelli noodles, and a deeply flavourful broth that is further spiced with lemongrass, galangal and red curry, the inclusion of coconut milk in the dish soothes out the heat, while the fresh herbs and fresh, crunchy vegetables add a refreshing contrast. The ultimate Laos comfort food that is nourishing, bold and unapologetically aromatic, Khao Poon is a delight to savour.
3. Sai Oua
Among the top Laos Thai street foods, Sai Oua is a grilled sausage with a punch. Not your ordinary sausage, but rather a herbaceous flavour bomb, this grilled pork sausage is generously seasoned with kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal and chillies. Delivering you with an explosion of smoky, spicy and citrusy flavours, Sai Oua is served as a snack or a part of a larger meal, often paired alongside sticky rice or raw vegetables. Every bite into this street food delicacy feels like a culinary thrill.
4. Mok Pa
Lao’s answer to fine culinary artistry in a humble package, Mok Pa is steamed fish in banana leaves. This delicate masterpiece is prepared from freshwater fish which is then mixed with herbs, shallots, lime leaves and fish sauce, and then wrapped in banana leaves and gently steamed. The ultimate dish that this results in is a moist and fragrant bundle, where the delicate fish meets the brightness of the lemongrass and the depth of fermented fish paste.
5. Or Lam
Originating from Luang Prabang, Or Lam is a hearty jungle stew that is packed with a peppery kick. A thick and rustic stew that brings the forest to your bowl, Or Lam is prepared from buffalo meat or chicken, eggplants, wood ear mushrooms, yard long beans and the curious addition of sakhan, which is a kind of spicy wood stem. A well known dish from Laos cuisine that represents a complex medley of textures and sensations, this recipe is a mildly spicy one, which is also a little smoky and utterly comforting.
6. Nam Van
A popular Laos dessert drink that feels like a sweet escape in a glass, Nam Van is prepared from coconut milk, crushed ice, and colourful jelly or tapioca pearls. Often layered with sweet corn, pandan-flavoured noodles, and palm sugar syrup, this traditional Laos food is an extremely refreshing one. A refreshing carnival of textures and sweetness, Nam Van is more like Laos’ very own bubble tea.