1. Overview
Cambodia food, also known as Khmer cuisine, is deeply rooted in tradition and combines aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and a harmonious balance of flavors. In this exploration, we will delve into a selection of 20 mouthwatering dishes that represent the essence of Cambodian gastronomy. Whether you are a food enthusiast, a traveler seeking new tastes, or simply curious about Cambodia’s culinary traditions, this article is also for you.
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2. Top 20 Cambodian Food
2.1. Nom Banh Chok
Nom Banh Chok is a traditional rice noodle dish commonly consumed as a breakfast staple or as a light meal throughout the day. It is known for its fresh flavors, fragrant herbs, and a delightful combination of textures.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Nam Ben Chok Noodle – Road 810, Preah Dak village, Preah Dak Commune, Banteay Srei District, 67, Preah Dak, Cambodia.
- Open time: From 7 AM to 4 PM/ every day
2.2. Amok
It is a flavorful and creamy curry made with fish, chicken, or vegetables, mixed with coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and other spices. It is often steamed in a banana leaf cup.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Malis Restaurant – Phnom, 136 Norodom Blvd, Penh, Cambodia
- Open time: From 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM/ every day
2.3. Bai Sach Chrouk
This is a popular breakfast dish consisting of marinated pork served over rice, accompanied by pickled vegetables and a fried egg on top. The pork is usually grilled or roasted with garlic and soy sauce.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Bai Sach Chrouk – Vimol Thoam Thong Street (246), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Open time: From 6 AM to 8 PM/ every day
2.4. Lok Lak
Lok Lak is a versatile dish that can be made with various proteins, including chicken, pork, or even tofu, to suit different dietary preferences.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Khmer Kitchen Restaurant – Corner of 2 Thnou Street & Street 09, Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Open time: From 9 AM to 11 PM/ every day
2.5. Kuy Teav
Kuy Teav is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a satisfying meal at any time. Kuy Teav is known for its flavorful broth, silky rice noodles, and various toppings.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Orussey Restaurant – Street 182, Cambodia
- Open time: From 6 AM to 5 PM/ every day
2.6. Chicken Red Curry
It is a curry-based dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich and spicy red curry sauce alongside an assortment of vegetables and fragrant herbs.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Khmer Noodles Restaurant – 2 Samdach Phuong Street (264), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Open time: From 12 AM to 4 PM/ every day
2.7. Prahok Ktis
It is a popular dip or condiment made from prahok, a fermented fish paste, combined with other ingredients to create a savory and pungent flavor profile.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Malis Restaurant – Phnom, 136 Norodom Blvd, Penh, Cambodia
- Open time: From 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM/ every day
2.8. Sour Fish Soup
It is a light and refreshing soup made with fish as the main ingredient, combined with various souring agents and aromatic herbs.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Labaab Restaurant – 81 E2 Preah Monivong Blvd (93), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Open time: From 11 AM to 2 PM – From 5 PM to 10 PM/ every day
2.9. Saraman Curry
It is a flavorful curry characterized by its thick, creamy sauce and complex blend of spices. Saraman Curry is typically made with meat, such as beef or chicken, and various vegetables.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Rikitikitavi – Riverside Road Next To The Post Office, Kampot, Cambodia
- Open time: From 7 AM to 10 PM/ every day
2.10. Pomelo Salad
It is a popular salad enjoyed for its crisp texture, citrusy taste, and harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Madam Moch Khmer Restaurant – 021 Taphul Road, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Open time: From 10 AM to 10 PM/ every day
2.11. Green Mango Salad
It is a popular dish enjoyed for its vibrant flavors, crunchy texture, and the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy elements.
Recommended Restaurant:
- River Crown Restaurant – St sisowath Quay, 178, Cambodia
- Open time: From 8 AM to 12 PM/ every day
2.12. Kola Noodles
It is a flavorful and satisfying dish made with wide rice noodles, meat (usually beef or pork), and a fragrant sauce.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Celadon Restaurant – Chocolate Road, Sala Kamrauk Village, Sangkat Sala Kamrauk, Phumi Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Open time: From 6 AM to 11 PM/ every day
2.13. Samlor Korkor
It is a traditional Khmer dish that showcases a harmonious blend of vegetables, meat or seafood, and aromatic herbs and spices.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Malis Restaurant – Phnom, 136 Norodom Blvd, Penh, Cambodia
- Open time: From 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM/ every day
2.14. Lort Cha
Lort Cha is made with wide rice noodles, meat or seafood, and an assortment of vegetables, all stir-fried together in a savory sauce.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Rice Noodle & Chives Cake – 618, 155 Wat Bo Road, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Open time: From 7 AM to 9 PM/ every day
2.15. Num Ansom Chek
It is a sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves and filled with a mixture of sweet ingredients, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Mealea Restaurant – 44, Sothearos Blvd (corner of street 240 Chumne, Cambodia
- Open time: From 6 AM to 10:30 PM/ every day
2.16. Stir-fried Lemongrass Beef
It features tender strips of beef that are stir-fried with lemongrass, garlic, and an assortment of vegetables, resulting in a fragrant and savory dish with a hint of citrusy freshness.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Labaab Restaurant – 81 E2 Preah Monivong Blvd (93), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Open time: From 11 AM to 2 PM – From 5 PM to 10 PM/ every day
2.17. Cambodian Pork Sausage
It is a flavorful sausage made from ground pork, aromatic herbs, and spices, offering a savory and slightly sweet taste.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Modern Khmer Cuisine – Wat Damnak Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Open time: From 10 AM to 10 PM/ every day
2.18. Kampot Pepper Crab
It combines the delicate flavors of fresh crab with the distinct and aromatic taste of Kampot pepper, a spice renowned for its exceptional quality and unique characteristics.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Kep Sur Mer Restaurant – They Village, Prey Thom Commune, Krong Kaeb, Cambodia
- Open time: From 10:30 AM to 10:30 PM/ every day
2.19. Hot Pot
Hot Pot, also known as “Suki” or “Steamboat,” is a popular communal dining experience that is enjoyed in many Asian countries, including Cambodia. It involves cooking various ingredients in a simmering broth at the center of the dining table.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Xiaolongkan Hot Pot – 251 Rue Pasteur No. 51, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Open time: From 11 AM to 2 PM/ every day
2.20. Fried Insects
In Cambodia, fried insects are often found in street markets or as snacks in local food stalls. The most commonly consumed insects include crickets, grasshoppers, silkworm pupae, and various species of beetles. These insects are typically cleaned, seasoned, and deep-fried until they become crispy and crunchy.
Recommended Restaurant:
- Romdoul 88 – Chheuteal Village Pdao Chum Commune, Kampong Cham, Cambodia
- Open time: From 7 AM to 7 PM/ every day
3. Conclusion
In conclusion, Cambodia food offers diverse flavors and dishes that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage. Meta Voyage hopes the article will help you to explore the vibrant flavors of Khmer cuisine and have a memorable experience when traveling to Cambodia.
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