A Taste of Cambodia: My Favorite Khmer Dishes

Cambodian cuisine is often the "hidden gem" of Southeast Asia. While it shares similarities with Thai and Vietnamese food, Khmer cuisine is unique for its use of freshwater fish and its incredible variety of fresh herbs and vegetables. Here is a gallery of the dishes you simply must try.

The Essential Menu

Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)

The Breakfast of Champions. You will see locals eating this everywhere in the morning. It consists of fresh rice noodles topped with a yellow-green fish curry gravy made from lemongrass, turmeric, and kaffir lime. It is always served with a mountain of fresh vegetables like banana blossom, cucumber, and water lily stems.

Prahok Ktis (Creamy Pork Dip)

If you are afraid to try fermented fish (Prahok), start here! This is a rich, savory dip made by simmering prahok with minced pork, coconut milk, and pea eggplants. The coconut milk mellows out the strong fish flavor, creating a creamy, spicy dip that pairs perfectly with crisp, raw vegetables.

Trei Aing (Grilled Fish)

Cambodia is home to the Mekong and the Tonle Sap lake, so freshwater fish is king. A whole fish is usually marinated in salt or chili, grilled over charcoal, and served with a tangy dipping sauce made from tamarind and garlic.

Samlor Machu (Sour Soup)

This is the comfort food of every Cambodian family. Unlike the spicy Tom Yum of Thailand, Khmer sour soup relies on the gentle tang of tamarind, tomatoes, and pineapple. It is refreshing, light, and healthy.

Samlor Korko (The Stirring Soup)

Often called the National Dish of Cambodia. It is a thick, hearty stew made with toasted ground rice (which gives it a nutty flavor), prahok, and virtually any vegetable available in the garden—pumpkin, papaya, long beans, and eggplant.

The Fresh Vegetable Platter

In Cambodia, the "salad" is not a separate course; it is served with every meal. You will always be given a plate of raw herbs, cucumbers, and sometimes bitter flowers. You are meant to dip these into your soup or sauce for an extra crunch.

Eat Like a Local!

Ready to try? Head to the local markets in the morning for the freshest Nom Banh Chok, or visit a "Khmer Family Restaurant" for dinner to share these dishes with friends.