See why Lao cuisine—an aromatic fusion of influences and traditions—is reputed for being balanced, delicate, and flavorful. In a small class of 12 people, pick up new skills in the kitchen of a renowned local chef while you watch and help prepare 7 traditional dishes that you can feast on for lunch.

In Luang Prabang, considered the gastronomic capital of Laos, head to Tamnak Lao restaurant in the city center where your culinary adventure begins. After meeting your classmates, embark on a 1-hour tour of a local market. Experience local daily life, meet vendors, and pick up the freshest ingredients.

Back at the restaurant's catering school, your traditional cooking lesson begins with a demonstration of preparing up to 7 renowned dishes—which you can indulge in for lunch. Dishes include:

• Luang Prabang Salad—an egg salad flavored with coriander, watercress, and fried garlic
• Feu Kua—sticky rice noodles with chicken and vegetables
• Chicken Larb—a famed Lao cold meat salad
• Kheu Sen Lon—soy vermicelli noodle dish
• Oh Paedak—succulent pork dish seasoned with delicate Lao aromas
• Kheu Muk Kua Guo Moo—pork served with eggplant
• Gaeng Phet—a chicken red curry served with coconut milk, beans, and basil leaves

At your own work station, put what you learned to the test. Following instructions from a cookbook—which you can take home—and with the help of the chef, make 2 of your favorite dishes before tucking in and finding out if you could be Laos' next top chef.