04/01/18
The Laab Duck at Thip Khao in Washington DC is another terrific game changer from this authentic Laotian restaurant. It consists of finely hand chopped duck tossed with mint, toasted rice, chili, banana blossom, scallion, lemongrass, galangal, and cilantro. The duck pieces have a soft chew that contrast nicely with the crispy toasted rice. The duck pieces aren’t fatty but it’s natural fats from within add a certain buttery coating to this dish. Herbal mint, scallion, lemongrass, galangal and cilantro touches on all your senses with the sweet, sour, bitter and spice. The sour acidity from the freshly squeezed lime juice and the saltiness from the fish sauce tie all the ingredients together in harmony. With added chili flakes this dish has a punch of spice that isn’t for the faint at heart. After the first bite your senses are opened up and all the fresh flavors come rushing through. Big time for sure.