A Hands-on Introduction to Laotian Cuisine
A Hands-on Introduction
to Laotian Cuisine
The Lao cuisine shows similarities with its neighbours in terms of the use of ingredients
and preparation. We have teamed up with one of the best chefs in Luang Prabang that
will show you some of the secrets that define true Laotian gastronomy.
WHY THIS TOUR?
Inspired by local ingredients, spiced up by influences from the region, and flavoured to capture the essence of Laos in its mildest form, food and culture are permanently etched in what defines the country. With its strategic location in the northern mountain ranges, Luang Prabang has emerged as a culinary haven over the years picking and merging influences from ethnic minorities and the Mekong.
Added to its distinctive cuisine are its colonial influences during the time the French-controlled the country from south to north. Each dish has its own story, each ingredient its function, and all this is encapsulated during a hands-on cooking class, led by leading master chefs.
TRAIL ITINERARY
08:00 - 15:00
A tuk-tuk will pick you up from your hotel, right after breakfast, and transfer to one of the leading cooking schools in Luang Prabang for a taste of Lao cooking.
After an introduction from the chef, you will visit the local fresh food market, to learn about the local ingredients and fresh produce grown in the area. Your chef of the morning will explain carefully where to look for when picking the elements for a good Lao dish. Return to the restaurant to begin your cooking adventure, which will become your lunch in the end. Not only the use of spices and herbs are explained, but also how to cut and prepare the different ingredients spices and vegetables are part of this course. Each participant will be assigned to its cooking station, complete with all the tools one need to get chopping, cutting and cooking.
During these morning hours, the culinary team will also teach you the history of Lao cooking and its influence from the neighbouring countries. Then feast on a delicious lunch of the exotic dishes which you have prepared together; the latter is always a special moment with your classmates. The cooking school we’ve chosen for this excursion has been based on excellent reviews from customers as well being founded on the meticulous cooking skills of one of Luang Prabang’ s finest chefs around. An informal meeting of passionate Laotian food-minds and those keen for a deep-dive in its very palatable selection of local deliciousness comes to an end with showcasing, and tasting, your final result.
After your own cooked lunch, a tuk-tuk will bring you back to your hotel, where you will arrive at around 3 pm.
