"Khing" in Lao

Fresh ginger is commonly used in Lao cuisine and is an important ingredient in many dishes. It is known as "khing" in Lao language. Ginger is often used to add flavor and aroma to soups, stews, curries, and stir-fried dishes. In Lao culture, ginger is also used for its medicinal properties. It is believed to help with digestion, relieve nausea, and reduce inflammation. Ginger tea is a popular drink in Laos and is often consumed for its health benefits. Fresh ginger can be found in markets and grocery stores throughout Laos. It is usually sold in small pieces or in larger quantities, and is often used immediately after purchase to ensure maximum freshness and flavor. In addition to being used in cooking, fresh ginger is also used in traditional Lao herbal medicine.

In Lao cuisine, fresh ginger is often combined with other aromatic herbs and spices such as garlic, lemongrass, and galangal to create complex flavors. Some popular Lao dishes that use fresh ginger include:

• Tom khem (a soup made with pork, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce)
• Laap (a minced meat salad with fresh herbs and spices including ginger)
• Sai oua (a grilled sausage made with pork, herbs, and spices including ginger)
• Khao poon (a spicy noodle soup made with fish or chicken, coconut milk, and fresh ginger)

Fresh ginger is also used in Lao desserts such as ginger-infused rice pudding.In addition to its culinary uses, fresh ginger is also an important part of Lao traditional medicine. It is believed to have many health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and helping to relieve cold and flu symptoms. In Lao culture, ginger is often used as a natural remedy for various ailments. Overall, fresh ginger plays an important role in both Lao cuisine and traditional medicine, and is widely available in markets throughout Laos. 

Apart from its culinary and medicinal uses, fresh ginger also has cultural significance in Lao culture. It is often used in religious and spiritual practices, such as offering ginger to monks during alms-giving ceremonies or placing ginger on Buddhist altars as an offering. In Lao folklore, ginger is sometimes associated with luck and protection. For example, it is believed that carrying a piece of ginger in your pocket can ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Fresh ginger is also a common ingredient in Lao beauty treatments. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can improve skin health and reduce inflammation. Some traditional Lao beauty treatments that use fresh ginger include ginger-infused oils, scrubs, and face masks. Overall, fresh ginger is an important and versatile ingredient in Lao culture, with uses in cuisine, traditional medicine, religious practices, and beauty treatments