Food is a central thing in life of Lao people. They spend a lot of time gathering ingredients, preparing meals, and eating them. Most adults, and many children from age 6 or 7 onwards know how to prepare food, and can often cook really well.
For some authentic Northern Lao recipes, see http://www.theboatlanding.com/menu/recipes.html

Stop Press: The cookbook is OUT
http://www.foodfromnorthernlaos.com/