While Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Laos, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage it also happens to be a foodie’s paradise. For those looking to enjoy a culinary adventure here, these are some of the popular dishes to try.

mick62, Fish with coconut milk served in banana leaf, CC BY-SA 2.0

Luang Prabang Salad

Luang Prabang salad is a refreshing dish featuring lettuce, spring onion, watercress, cucumber, tomato, coriander, and mint. It’s topped with peanuts, boiled egg, and shallots and drizzled with a creamy and sweet dressing. While it’s often served at weddings and other special occasions, it’s also on offer at dining venues of properties like Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel which provide more local dishes to try.

Ping Kai

Ping kai, or grilled chicken, is a popular street food that can also be enjoyed at Luang Prabang restaurants. An essential part of this dish is the marinade featuring ingredients like fish sauce, oyster sauce, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and palm sugar. The marinated chicken is then grilled over charcoal until it’s golden brown and crispy, often served with sticky rice and green papaya salad.

Mok Pa

Steamed fish in banana leaves, mok pa is a traditional Lao dish that’s known for its delicate taste and beautiful presentation. The fish is wrapped in a banana leaf with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a fragrant culinary creation. The banana leaf adds a subtle earthy note to the fish, while the herbs and spices provide a complex and harmonious blend of flavours.

Kaipaen

A unique and delicious snack, kaipaen originated in northern Laos and is one of the popular dishes in Luang Prabang. Interestingly, the main ingredient is freshwater green algae! It is harvested from rivers like the Mekong River and then washed, dried, and pressed into thin sheets with shrimp, galangal, garlic, and tomatoes. The sheets are then coated with sesame seeds and fried, offering a crispy treat.