# Bayou, Buddha, and Padaek: Southern Louisiana’s Lao Foodways

“Bayou, Buddha, and Padaek: Southern Louisiana’s Lao Foodways” is a two-part documentary that delves into the rich culinary traditions of the Lao Buddhist immigrant community in Louisiana. Through vibrant storytelling and intimate interviews with first, second and third generations, the film uncovers how these unique foodways are woven into the fabric of an existing Cajun and Creole culture, highlighting the fusion of flavors and techniques. Viewers will embark on a journey that celebrates the resilience and creativity of the Lao community, showcasing their traditional dishes intertwined with religious practices and the stories behind them. Explore the intersection of heritage and innovation, and discover how food can bridge cultures and create a sense of belonging. The film was made by Phanat Xanamane, Sami Haggood, and Badar Hamdani. Phanat Xanamane received the 2022 American Folklife Center’s Community Collections Grant for the project, Louisiana Lao New Year Archive. This year’s American Folklife Center Homegrown Foodways Film series is dedicated to celebrating the Center’s Community Collections Grants program recipients, their projects, and community traditions. The Community Collections Grants program is part of the Library’s “Of the People: Widening the Path” initiative.

- Kind: Talk
- Year: 2025
- Runtime: 35 min
- By: Phoumylay, Khamsone
- Archive: [Library of Congress](https://www.loc.gov/item/video-10796/)
- Licence or status: Rights statement at the Library of Congress (as the archive states it)
- Credit: Library of Congress
- Who can watch: Tweens profiles and older (the archive gives no rating; placed by Invisible Network from its collection and subjects)

[Watch now](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/watch/archive/loc/video-10796?play=1)