Lao and Thai Dishes - Eat Your Way to a Healthier You
My love for Asian food started about six years ago
when I decided to live a healthy lifestyle. During my research, I found out
that the incidence of chronic diseases is lower among Asians than Westerners. This
is because of the food that they eat.
Lao and Thai dishes are two of the Asian cuisines that
I find healthy to eat. Both are prepared in a traditional way using the
freshest ingredients available. Oftentimes, the cuisines are mistaken as being one
and the same because of their culinary similarities. Nonetheless, each cuisine
has its own tasty distinctions.
Green papaya salad is a dish common to both cuisines.
It is prepared using lime, hot chili, fish sauce and palm sugar. Let us
consider the ingredients one by one and see how each of them can benefit one’s
health.
Green papaya contains essential enzyme and nutrients
that promote excellent digestion. Chili boosts the immune system. It can clear
the sinuses and eliminate nasal congestion. Lime is useful in helping to cure
common colds, headache and stomachache. Finally, palm sugar is rich in
polyphenols and antioxidants that can keep your body and heart young and
healthy.
Meat salad is another dish included in both cuisines.
It is popularly known as Laap and Larb in Laos and Thailand respectively. It comes in
duck, fish and pork variations. The meat used in this dish is cut and served in
the recommended amount. Then it is tossed in lime, herbs and spices for added
flavour. All in all, Laap and Larb is a great source of protein.
