Extra Rare Chicken Photo Credit
Laos is a place with deep roots in history, tradition and culture. People here are warm, patient and hard-working. Their lifestyle is a far-cry from most other people in South or South-East Asia. They are not rushing towards life; rather they enjoy a laid-back attitude and tend to go with the flow. It is something that people from most other places need right now in their hectic and fast lives.
Coconut rice in banana leaves Photo Credit
Like with any other place, food is an important component of the tradition, culture and people. It resonates with their nature and reflects their love for life. One of the most famous cuisines in Laos, which is followed by most people here are their morning soup and fresh spring rolls. Though there are other aspects to their cuisine, the morning broth made with noodles, sumptuous meats and fresh vegetables and herbs provide a powerful and energy filled start for the day.
The best soups in the food market will have slices of garlic and spring onions with various assorted spices sprinkled on to the fresh broth. Fish sauce, vinegar and soy sauce form important components of their cuisine. Xieng Thong Noodle Shop found near Wat Xiang, is one of the best soup shops in Laos. They open at 7 AM everyday and remain open till their soup is finished. The simplicity in the soup coupled with the earnestness to provide a tasty and healthy start for the day excites me.
Local Laos Street Vendors Photo Credit
Another favorite street dish of mine is the spring rolls. Now the spring rolls contain various kinds of fillings depending upon your appetite and longing. They can either be fresh, mildly steamed or deep fried. Either way it is a delicacy that cannot be missed. If you love to travel and experience the various cuisines, then you have to come to Laos and taste these spring rolls. As famous spring rolls are, no other place in the world can make them like here. They mainly contain rice and meat mixed with various condiments and specially prepared sauces. Be sure to order the deep fried spring rolls when they are hot; otherwise it loses the scintillating feature.
Another highlight of the night market food stalls is the pork dumpling. These are made fresh right when you order them. The filling with pork and spicy sauces and yet the soft simple exterior of the dumpling, brings forth an amazing contrast. Freshly grilled chicken breasts, beef and fish are also very tasty and are a must-try for anyone who enjoys meat.
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