Laab: Authentic Southeast Asian Delight

Learn how to make the popular Esan dish Laab

Laab is one of the most popular foods in the northeast region of Thailand. Laab is commonly found at events such as weddings and other celebrations.  The aroma of roasted rice combined with the smell of herbs added and flavoured with chillies and lemons results in a bold flavour and it is usually eaten with hot sticky rice or steamed rice.   "Laab", "Lap" or "Larp", has a spicy, pleasing flavour that is unique to Isan people that many people both Thai and non-Thai people like to order. The origin of Laab is influenced by people coming from Vientiane in Laos to the north and northeast of Thailand. This charming blend of meat and herbs including the flavouring ingredients is the origin of the term "Zap" meaning delicious in the northeast regional language dialect itself !!
Parawan’s Thai Home Cooking Class Koh Tao will show the famous Laab pork or chicken recipe with a step-by-step method that is easy to understand, not complicated, suitable for
those experienced cooking Thai food and newbies alike.

 Laab normally has a spicy kick and that is why usually this food is eaten with vegetables to soften the spiciness.

Note. For vegetarian or vegan just substitute the meat with Tofu and add salt instead of fish sauce.

 

The history of Laab

Laab sometimes written and pronounced Larp is a traditional dish from Laos and northeastern Thailand that is believed to have originated from the Laotian Lao people Tai ethnic group. It is a 'salad' dish made from minced meat (usually chicken, beef, or pork), however, it can also be made as a vegetarian dish with Tofu. This is then mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, chilli, mint, and other herbs. This dish is typically served with sticky rice and vegetables. Laab has become a staple dish in both Laotian and Thai cuisine, known for its balance of flavours and textures, including sour, salty, spicy, and savoury.

 

 Laab Chicken or Pork

 

Ingredients you will need if you are taking an online class

● 200 g Chicken or pork mince
● 1 tbsp. Roasted rice
● 1 tbsp. Roasted sesame
● Onion much as you like
● Spring onion much as you like
● Mint leaves as much as you like
● Dry chillies
● Fish sauce
● Lime or lemon
● Oil
● Side dish fresh vegetables anything you like