From Jungle To Oven: A Guide To Luang Prabang Food, Luang Prabang, Laos

Lao cuisine shares many similarities with the neighboring Isaan of Northeast Thailand – think of cured meats, freshwater fishes and a basket of crunchy and zesty greens. The French influence comes from the days when Laos was a French colony and the legacy of café and pain lives on till today. Together, both create an exciting sensation to our taste buds where earthy flavors are complemented by the finest of texture.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of food we ate in Luang Prabang but it should help you anticipate the taste and texture of these delectable dishes that makes them stand out from other Southeast Asian fares.

Khao Niao, or sticky rice, is a Laos staple found in your humble street side stall while never looking out of place in a swanky restaurant. This type of rice is prominent in Luang Prabang due to its proximity to the northern highlands where it is widely cultivated by the Tai and Kmhmu people.

My first encounter with Khao Niao was during dinner at Tamnak Lao. It was our very first meal in Luang Prabang and my taste buds were ready to be excited. The glutinous rice is traditionally served in a decorated bamboo basket (as I will learn throughout my four days here) and mine is the same. I opened the lid and my eyes were fascinatingly staring at a basket full of black and purple rice all clumped together. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).