Minced Fish Salad for lunch in Luang Prabang, Laos. Minced Fish Salad (Koy Pa), also known as “Koi Pla” or “Koi Pa,” is a traditional Lao dish that originates from Laos, a Southeast Asian country. It is a popular and unique dish that features raw fish as a key ingredient.
Koy Pa is typically consumed as a part of a larger meal, where various Lao dishes are shared among diners. It’s a dish that highlights the use of fresh ingredients and the bold flavors characteristic of Lao cuisine. The lime juice “cooking” process makes the fish safe to consume raw, as the acidity helps kill potential harmful bacteria. However, it’s essential to use fresh, high-quality fish to minimize any risks associated with consuming raw seafood.
It’s worth noting that the spelling and pronunciation of Lao dishes can vary, so you might come across different versions of the name, such as “Koi Pla” or “Koy Pa.”