Cambodian Cuisine: 10 Traditional Dishes You Should Eat

Cambodian cuisine, known for its unique blend of flavors and traditional cooking techniques, is a treasure trove for food lovers. Influenced by neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam and its rich history, Cambodian food (Khmer cuisine) has developed into a distinctive culinary identity. From hearty soups to refreshing salads, each dish offers a new adventure for the taste buds. Whether you’re a traveler exploring Cambodia or a foodie looking to try something new, these ten traditional dishes will give you a taste of Cambodia’s diverse and flavorful cuisine.

1. Amok Trey (Fish Amok)

Amok Trey is one of the most famous Cambodian dishes and is often considered the country’s national dish. It’s a creamy, fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves. The fish (usually catfish) is cooked with coconut milk, eggs, and the traditional Khmer curry paste called kroeung, which includes lemongrass, turmeric, and galangal. The mixture is wrapped in banana leaves, giving the dish a subtle earthy aroma. Fish Amok is often served with rice and topped with kaffir lime leaves, offering a creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor. This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Cambodia.

2. Bai Sach Chrouk (Grilled Pork with Rice)

Bai Sach Chrouk is a simple yet incredibly delicious breakfast dish you can find throughout Cambodia. Thin pork slices are marinated in garlic and coconut milk, and then slowly grilled to perfection. The pork is served over a bed of steamed rice, accompanied by fresh pickled cucumbers, radishes, and sometimes a fried egg. A small bowl of clear chicken broth often accompanies the dish, providing a comforting and hearty meal to start the day. Its simplicity highlights the fresh ingredients and bold flavors of Cambodian cooking.

3. Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)

Nom Banh Chok is a traditional Cambodian breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a green fish curry made from lemongrass, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves. The noodles are typically served with a side of fresh vegetables such as bean sprouts, cucumbers, mint, and banana blossom, adding a refreshing crunch to the dish. This dish is particularly popular in rural areas, where it’s often prepared fresh for local markets. It’s a light yet flavorful dish, perfect for those looking for a quick and healthy meal.

4. Lok Lak (Stir-Fried Beef)

Lok Lak is a savory stir-fried beef dish that is popular across Cambodia. Tender slices of beef are marinated in a mix of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and Kampot pepper (a famous Cambodian pepper), then stir-fried with onions and served on a bed of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. The beef is typically accompanied by a fried egg and a dipping sauce made of lime juice, salt, and Kampot pepper, adding a tangy kick to the dish. Lok Lak is often served with rice or French fries, blending traditional Khmer flavors with a touch of French influence.

5. Samlor Machu (Sour Soup)

Samlor Machu is a traditional Cambodian sour soup that comes in several variations, but the most common version is made with fish, tamarind, tomatoes, pineapple, and various herbs like basil and cilantro. This soup is known for its light and tangy flavor, balanced by the natural sweetness of the pineapple and the savory taste of the fish. Another popular variation of Samlor Machu is Samlor Machu Kreung, which includes kroeung paste, making it spicier and more aromatic. This dish is often served with rice and is a favorite comfort food for many Cambodians.

6. Prahok Ktis (Fermented Fish Dip)

Prahok Ktis is a traditional Cambodian dip made from prahok, a fermented fish paste that’s considered a staple in Khmer cuisine. While prahok has a strong and pungent smell, it’s loved for its deep umami flavor. In Prahok Ktis, the fermented fish paste is cooked with minced pork, coconut milk, and lemongrass, resulting in a creamy and savory dip. This dish is typically       served with a variety of fresh vegetables like cucumber, cabbage, and long beans, which are dipped into the mixture. For those who love bold, intense flavors, Prahok Ktis is a must-try.

7. Kuy Teav (Rice Noodle Soup)

Kuy Teav is a popular Cambodian breakfast dish that consists of a clear broth made from pork or beef bones, served with thin rice noodles and a variety of toppings. Common garnishes include bean sprouts, green onions, cilantro, lime, and a choice of protein such as sliced pork, beef, or seafood. Kuy Teav is often compared to pho from Vietnam, but it has a distinct flavor profile thanks to adding garlic oil, soy sauce, and sometimes pickled vegetables. Kuy Teav is a comforting, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

8. Lap Khmer (Khmer Beef Salad)

Lap Khmer is Cambodia’s version of a beef salad, made with thinly sliced, marinated beef tossed in lime juice, lemongrass, shallots, garlic, mint, and chilies. The beef is often served raw, ceviche-style, although it can be lightly grilled for those who prefer it cooked. The sharp, tangy flavor of the lime juice is balanced by the heat from the chilies and the aromatic herbs, making it a refreshing yet bold dish. Lap Khmer is a popular appetizer or side dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Cambodian cuisine.

9. Ang Dtray-Meuk (Grilled Squid)

Ang Dtray-Meuk is a popular street food dish that you’ll find in coastal towns like Sihanoukville and Kep. Fresh squid is marinated in lime juice, fish sauce, and Kampot pepper, then grilled over an open flame until it’s perfectly tender. The squid is often served with a dipping sauce made from lime juice, salt, and Kampot pepper, adding a tangy and slightly spicy kick. Ang Dtray-Meuk is a simple but flavorful dish that highlights the freshness of Cambodia’s seafood.

10. Cha K’dam (Stir-Fried Crab)

Cambodia is known for its fresh seafood, and Cha K’dam, or stir-fried crab, is a dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the local crabs. The crabs are stir-fried with Kampot pepper, garlic, and sometimes a touch of chili, creating a dish that’s both spicy and savory. Kampot pepper, a prized ingredient in Cambodia, adds a unique depth of flavor to the dish. This dish is often served in the coastal regions of Cambodia, especially in the town of Kep, where fresh crabs are abundant.

Conclusion

Cambodian cuisine offers a delightful exploration of flavors, from the tangy and spicy to the sweet and savory. With its rich history and cultural influences, Cambodian food tells the story of a nation that has endured, adapted and thrived. Whether you’re sitting in a bustling market enjoying a plate of Bai Sach Chrouk or dining at a restaurant with a bowl of Amok Trey, Cambodian dishes are filled with warmth, tradition, and a love for fresh ingredients. The next time you visit Cambodia or find a Cambodian restaurant near you, be sure to try these ten traditional dishes to truly experience the heart and soul of Khmer cuisine.