Traditionally, laab (or larb or laap, pronounced: LAH-pb) translates to minced meat salad.
It is a Lao dish that is refreshing, herbaceous, savory, full of umami, and plays with plenty of textures!
It pairs well with sticky rice, regular jasmine rice, or even lettuce!
In other words, it’s versatile whether you’re watching your carbs or not!
However, all I ask is if you make laab that you at least incorporate these foundational basics:

– “fish” sauce
– toasted rice
– protein
– herbs
– lime juice

You don’t even need to add chili flakes if you can’t handle the heat!!

Any who!

If you’re looking for a bright food pick-me-up I suggest this recipe!
I would love to hear your thoughts whether you are trying it out for the first time or are well-versed with Lao food!

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“If I am an advocate for anything, it is to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. Walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food.”

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Tempeh Laap (Laab, Lap, Larb) (Lao Minced “Meat” Salad)

I N G R E D I E N T S :

• 1 pound Tempeh

• 2 medium shallots, diced

• 2 tablespoons toasted sticky rice

• 3 tsp red pepper flakes (more or less depending on heat preference)

• 2 tbs vegan fish sauce (24 Vegan Fish Sauce is my favorite I’ve come across to date, bonus: they are Vietnamese-Women owned and made!)

• 3 tablespoons lime juice

• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

• ¼ cup scallions, sliced

• ¼ cup dill, chopped

• ¼ cup mint, chopped

• Lime wedges (optional garnish)

• white pepper and soy sauce to season

M E T H O D :

1. In a medium bowl, mix all ingredients (including ground toasted rice) until well combined and evenly seasoned by the vegan fish sauce and lime juice.

2. Serve alongside jasmine or sticky rice, and leafy greens (such as romaine or butter lettuce for making lettuce cups).

3. Garnish with lime wedges and serve. Enjoy! 🙂

N O T E S :

• It is easy to add extra aromatics, like adding kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass to the rice while cooking!

• You can also add more umami by adding dried mushroom powder! The great thing about this dish is that it is very versatile!

• For more delicious recipes to create or pair alongside, visit the Kitchen Journal.