Larb (Laab) — Thailand's National Salad

Larb (ลาบ), also spelled laab or laap, is a traditional Isan (Northeastern Thai) dish that has become a national treasure. It's a bold, spicy salad made from minced meat, seasoned with lime, fish sauce, chili, and toasted rice powder.

Varieties

• Larb Gai (ลาบไก่) — minced chicken
• Larb Moo (ลาบหมู) — minced pork (most common)
• Larb Neua (ลาบเนื้อ) — minced beef
• Larb Ped (ลาบเป็ด) — minced duck
• Larb Pla (ลาบปลา) — minced fish

Spice Level

Larb is typically VERY spicy (4-5/5). The heat comes from fresh red chili flakes called prik pon. Request 'mai phet' for a milder version, but the dish loses some character.