Vientiane Night Food Market 17.10.2025

fish sauce

🥗Healthier: soy sauce

💰Cheaper: salt

Soy sauce is lower in calories and can mimic the umami flavor.

ground meat

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: chicken

Tofu offers a plant-based option while chicken is often less expensive.

fresh herbs

🥗Healthier: dried herbs

💰Cheaper: frozen herbs

Dried or frozen herbs can be more affordable and have a longer shelf life.

sticky rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: white rice

Quinoa is a healthier grain alternative, while white rice is a more budget-friendly option.

Prepare the sticky rice by soaking it in water for several hours, then steaming it until tender.

Mix ground meat with lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar in a bowl until well combined.

Chop fresh herbs, chili peppers, and green onions finely and add to the meat mixture.

Add minced garlic and shallots to the meat mixture and stir well.

Taste and adjust seasoning with more fish sauce or lime juice as needed.

Serve the meat mixture on a bed of fresh vegetables and cucumber slices.

Garnish with crushed peanuts and additional herbs.

Serve with sticky rice on the side for scooping.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens