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    Home » Difference Between Laotian Pho and Vietnamese Pho

    Difference Between Laotian Pho and Vietnamese Pho

    Last Updated Date: May 2, 2021 | Published: Aug 22, 2020 by Lane Souvannalith

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    Table of Contents

    • While Vietnam reigns as the originator of the infamous pho noodle soup, Laos has its own unique version of pho. In this post, we'll talk through the differences between each country's soup and how to spot the differences.
    • Difference Between Vietnamese Pho and Lao Pho
    • Accompaniments with Vietnamese Pho and Laotian Pho
    • Finding Vietnamese versus Lao Style Pho at a Restaurant
    • Cooking Lao Pho Noodles vs Vietnamese Pho Noodles
    • Get my free recipe book that includes five of the most popular Southeast Asian noodle recipes!
    • Summary of Comparing Vietnamese Pho Noodles and Laotian Pho Noodles
    • Other Posts You May Like

    While Vietnam reigns as the originator of the infamous pho noodle soup, Laos has its own unique version of pho. In this post, we'll talk through the differences between each country's soup and how to spot the differences.

    Pho is generally associated with Vietnamese cuisine, but there are regional variations of it in every part of Asia. Laotian pho has very similar preparation techniques, but with differences in ingredients and condiments.

    Vietnamese pho noodles versus Lao pho noodles

    Difference Between Vietnamese Pho and Lao Pho

    The difference between Vietnamese pho and Lao pho is that Vietnamese pho generally uses chicken or beef in the soup broth whereas Lao pho often uses pork broth topped with crispy pork on top. The rice sticks used in Lao pho bowls are often thinner than the Vietnamese pho bowls.

    Accompaniments with Vietnamese Pho and Laotian Pho

    The pho bowls from both countries are prepared the same way, often garnished with fresh herbs and vegetables on top. Often, lime wedges, chili sauce, and hoisin sauce are commonly requested for both dishes. However, Lao bowls are often accompanied with sugar and shrimp paste as a condiment.

    Finding Vietnamese versus Lao Style Pho at a Restaurant

    Vietnamese restaurants are more prominent in western countries than Lao restaurants. Lao cuisine can often be found secretly hiding under the guise of Thai menu items in Thai restaurants.

    Often, those who enjoy Lao pho can be identified when they order pho accompanied with sugar. It provides a sweeter taste to the broth (often 1-2 teaspoons are added). 

    You won't find pork-based pho noodles at Vietnamese restaurants. If you are craving Lao pho without having to cook it, I would just recommend ordering it with your favorite protein and added some sugar. 

    easy authentic vietnamese pho broth

    Cooking Lao Pho Noodles vs Vietnamese Pho Noodles

    I've written a really simple recipe on making Vietnamese pho broth. You can use the same recipe, instead substituting pork neck bones during the broth simmering process. Just make sure you use thinner rice sticks and serving sugar as a condiment.

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    Summary of Comparing Vietnamese Pho Noodles and Laotian Pho Noodles

    While pho may have originated in Vietnam, countries like Laos have adapted their own unique version of this delicious dish. What makes Lao noodles different than the popular recipe of Vietnamese pho noodles is the pork based broth and the addition of sugar. While it is a subtle difference, it is a distinction that must be noted. An authentic Lao cuisine experience will include celery and Thai birds eye chilis with some shrimp paste to dip into as accompaniments to a delicious pho noodle soup.

    Other Posts You May Like

    • Pho Garnish Plate Explained
    • Vietnamese cuisine and Laos cuisine
    • Bun Noodles versus Pho Noodles
    • Difference Between Bun Rieu and Pho
    • Difference Between Lad Na and Pad Thai


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    « Bun Noodles versus Pho Noodles - Differences Explained
    Flavorful Authentic Laos Pork Sausage Recipe - Lao Sai Kok »

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    Meet Lane

    lane souvannalith
    Hi, I'm Lane! I love sharing my love of authentic Vietnamese, Lao, and Thai food! I moved into the states in the 1980s. During my life change, I brought along with my delicious recipes from Vietnam (my descent), Laos (where I was born), and Thailand (where I was a refugee during the war). I'm passionate about showing how anyone can make these delicious cuisines and how you can make it right at home! Learn more ...

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