Khao Poon (Lao Vermicelli Curry Soup)

Khao Poon is a popular Lao noodle soup known for its rich, comforting flavor. It’s made with thin rice noodles served in a creamy, spicy broth that usually combines coconut milk, lemongrass, garlic, galangal, and red curry paste.

The soup can be made with chicken, fish, or pork, depending on the family recipe. What makes Khao Poon special is how the herbs and spices blend together to create a warm, aromatic broth that is both gentle and flavorful. It’s a dish that feels light but deeply satisfying.

In Laos, Khao Poon is often served at celebrations, weddings, and family gatherings because it is a dish that brings people together. It’s topped with fresh vegetables like cabbage, mint, bean sprouts, and lime, giving every bowl a mix of warm and fresh textures. Each region and household has its own style—some make it spicier, some creamier, and some more herbal. But no matter how it’s cooked, Khao Poon represents the heart of Lao cuisine: comforting, full of fragrance, and made to be shared with others.