Cuisine in Laos

Larb

Minced meat salad mixed with mint and herbs. A national dish essential for celebrations.

• Region: Nationwide
• Main ingredients: Chicken or pork, Lime, Fish sauce, Sticky rice flour, Herbs

Khao Niao

Sticky rice steamed in a basket. The staple food eaten by hand with dishes.

• Region: Nationwide
• Main ingredients: Glutinous rice

Tom Mark Hoong

Green papaya soup simmered with abundant herbs and chilies.

• Region: Central
• Main ingredients: Green papaya, Lemongrass, Chilies, Chicken

Khao Piak Sen

Thick rice noodle soup. A breakfast staple with a gentle flavor.

• Region: Nationwide
• Main ingredients: Rice noodles, Chicken broth, Scallions, Lime

Or Lam

Luang Prabang-style stewed pot with herbal flavors.

• Region: Luang Prabang
• Main ingredients: Buffalo meat, Dill, Eggplant, Wood shoots

Sai Oua

Fermented sausage with a distinctive sour flavor. Popular as a beer accompaniment.

• Region: Vientiane
• Main ingredients: Pork, Sticky rice, Garlic

Khao Jee Pate

Lao version of banh mi with pate and herbs in French bread.

• Region: Nationwide
• Main ingredients: French bread, Pate, Herbs, Vegetables

Mok Pa

Spicy steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves.

• Region: Mekong River basin
• Main ingredients: White fish, Banana leaves, Dill, Chilies

Khai Phaen

Dried river seaweed snack sprinkled with sesame. Light salty flavor, perfect as a souvenir.

• Region: Luang Prabang
• Main ingredients: River moss, Sesame, Herbs

Beerlao

National jasmine rice-brewed lager beer. A regular winner at Asian beer awards.

• Region: Nationwide
• Main ingredients: Rice, Hops, Water