What Is Lao Food Like?

Sticky rice, known as "khao niao," is the foundation of Lao cuisine and accompanies nearly every meal. Unlike the steamed rice common in neighboring countries, sticky rice is eaten with the fingers, rolled into small balls, and used to scoop up accompanying dishes.

Laap, the national dish, is a minced meat salad seasoned with lime, mint, fish sauce, chili, and toasted rice powder. It can be made with chicken, pork, beef, duck, or fish, and is considered essential to any Lao culinary experience. Other signature dishes include tam mak houng (green papaya salad), ping kai (grilled chicken), and mok pa (fish steamed in banana leaves with herbs).

The French colonial influence is evident in the excellent bread, pate, and coffee found throughout the country, particularly in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Many upscale restaurants offer creative fusion cuisine blending Lao and French traditions.