MAIN INGREDIENTS
Khao poon (also known as lao laksa) is a spicy rice noodle soup originating from Laos. Over time, it has garnered extensive popularity in most of the Southeast Asian countries and in the US. It is considered a healthy and comforting dish due to a small amount of fat and a wide array of flavors.
The classic recipe is made with boiled vermicelli noodles, shredded chicken, red curry paste, lemongrass, coconut milk, garlic, shallots, galangal, and bamboo shoots. The spiciness depends on the amount of curry paste and (optionally) fresh chilis used in the dish.
MOST ICONIC Khao poon
Feu is a Lao beef noodle soup, believed to be a variation of the Vietnamese dish phở. It is made by pouring a boiling broth over rice noodles, thin slices of beef, and a variety of fresh local herbs and vegetables. This can include onions, garlic, cilantro, galanga, lemongrass, Thai basil, kaffir lime leaves, and mint.
Feu is generally eaten as a breakfast dish but can be easily found at local street stands during the entire day. Some variations of feu are not served with noodles, but as a stew that is meant to be enjoyed with sticky rice, another local favorite.
MOST ICONIC Feu
Khao piak khao is a thick Laotian rice soup that is traditionally served for breakfast. It is considered a comfort food staple that is often made in vast quantities and served to a large group of people. The base of the soup is made with chicken stock and various chicken parts (either thighs, bone-in breasts, or wings), but other versions use pork instead.
The broth is seasoned with galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, but most eateries also offer condiments and flavorings such as fish sauce, chili sauce, and sugar. Garnished with chopped scallions, fried garlic slices, and coriander leaves, the soup is served hot and makes for an affordable and filling breakfast.
MOST ICONIC Khao piak khao
Mee nam is a variety of noodle soup that is popular in Lao and Thai cuisines. The name covers a wide array of recipes, but the main ingredients are always wheat noodles, vegetables, and meat. Pork is the meat of choice for most, while dried shrimp and fish sauce add a new layer to the soup.
The vegetables and greens are chosen based on their availability in the region and usually include lettuce, scallions, garlic, coriander leaves, and bean sprouts. The soup is served hot and eaten as a savory and filling first course.
Khao piak sen is a traditional noodle soup that is commonly served for breakfast. It is made by simmering chicken broth with galangal, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce. The thick, chewy noodles (made from rice flour and tapioca starch) are later added to the broth and release some of their starch, thickening the soup a bit in the process.
The dish is garnished with shredded chicken, cilantro, cabbage, sliced green onions, fried garlic slices, and lime juice. Khao piak sen is usually made in large batches and it is typically served at family gatherings and similar social events.
MOST ICONIC Khao piak sen
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