Maejo University Presents âLarb x Labâ E...
Maejo University, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Chiang Mai Office), the Go2askAnn and Niyom Thai Facebook pages, professional chefs, and local larb experts, co-hosted the âLarb x Lab: A Healthy Buffalo Makes the Finest Larbâ exhibition on April 14â15, 2025. This groundbreaking exhibition showcased the full spectrum of knowledge surrounding larb muang (Northern-style larb), delving into its historical, cultural, and culinary dimensions. The event featured live cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs and panel discussions with experts on various aspects of larb muang. Dr. Nitath Boonpaisansatit, a lecturer from the Faculty of Liberal Arts and researcher in the LMC Spice Routes project at Maejo University, joined the discussion to share insights on the use of spices in larb chili pastes, and on the roles of herbs and vegetables accompanying larb. Dr. Kanjana Sommit, project manager of LMC Spice Routes from Maejo International College, also contributed her expertise, exchanging knowledge about larb-related spices with attendees.
The Larb x Lab exhibition was not only held in celebration of the Pi Mai Mueang (Lanna New Year) festival but also served as a storytelling platform about larb muang. The event brought together âLarb Warriorsâ and knowledgeable individuals to share diverse perspectives on larb kwai (buffalo larb), a significant dish in Lanna festivals. Stories covered a wide range of topicsâfrom why Northern Thais traditionally eat buffalo larb, to the complex blend of unique spices, herbs, and side dishes that accompany the dish.
Visitors also learned how larb is more than just foodâit is a rich cultural expression of Lanna people, deeply rooted in tradition, storytelling, and family ties. Each dish of festival larb reflects meticulous careâfrom the selection of meat (using nearly every part of the buffalo), to achieving balance in flavor and aroma with spices, understanding the origins of those spices, incorporating local vegetables, and using traditional tools such as the larb knife. The exhibition also touched on how larb is being reimagined through fusion cuisine.
The exhibition continues to be on display at the warehouse behind Flo Coffee Roaster until the end of April. Admission is free.
23/04/2025 14:28:41