Food in Laos

Laotian cuisine is known for its unique flavors. Laotian cuisine is known for its use of fresh herbs, bold flavors, and the balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Explore on this page 9 must try food (and drinks) in Laos

Sticky Rice (Khao Niew)

This is a staple in Lao cuisine. It is typically served in a small basket and eaten with hands by rolling it into small balls and dipping it into various dishes. They will serve this with lots of dishes especially curries

Laap (or Larb)

Laap is a traditional minced meat salad often made with chicken, beef, or fish. It’s flavored with lime, mint, chilies, and fish sauce, creating a refreshing and savory dish. You will eat those combined with sticky rice.

Tam Mak Hoong (Green Papaya Salad)

This spicy salad is made with shredded green papaya, chilies, lime, fish sauce, and other ingredients. It can be customized based on your spice preference. This is a dish that is also popular in Thailand. You will see more dishes inspired from Thai cuisine.

Mok Pa (Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves)

Fish is marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and then steamed. This cooking method imparts a distinctive flavor to the dish.

Khao Piak Sen (Lao Noodle Soup)

This noodle soup features flat rice noodles, broth, and a variety of toppings such as herbs, vegetables, and sometimes meat. This dish was one of my favourites

Mekong River Fish

Since Laos is home to the Mekong River, freshwater fish is a significant part of the diet. Grilled fish is a popular preparation method. I did a cool experience in Don Det. That’s the Thousand Island in the Mekong River. We went night spearfishing there and then ate our catch. Very tasty, and even ate raw fish too. Whether that was smart is another thing…..

Khao Jee (Baguette Sandwiches)

Influenced by French colonial history, baguette sandwiches filled with various ingredients like pork, pate, and vegetables are commonly found, especially in urban areas. After Thailand where I had eaten a lot of rice, I arrived in Laos and it was so nice to eat bread again!

Mekong Seaweed

Influenced by French colonial history, baguette sandwiches filled with various ingredients like pork, pate, and vegetables are commonly found, especially in urban areas. I tasted this myself in Muang Ngoy. It was very tasty!

Lao Coffee

Lao coffee is strong and often served with condensed milk. It’s a popular drink, and the coffee plantations in the southern part of the country contribute to its availability. I am not a big coffee fan myself, but the trick with coffee in Laos is not to stir. That way, the ground coffee beans sink to the bottom and you only drink the mixed liquid coffee.

More information about Laos

Budget Laos
Best time to visit Laos
Visa Laos
Currency of Laos
The Laos Flag
Learn Laos words
Safety in Laos
History of Laos
Laotian People
Religion of Laos