10 Best Traditional Dishes in Cambodia [Best Local Food in Cambodia]

When traveling to Southeast Asia, one should prioritize trying the local food, especially in Cambodia. Known for its historical site Angkor Wat, Cambodia also boasts a rich culinary scene influenced by its location and French colonialism. Here are 10 must-try local dishes in Cambodia:

1. Khmer Red Curry: A less spicy curry made with coconut milk, turmeric, galangal, and lemongrass, usually served with meat and vegetables.

2. Ang Dtray Meuk: Grilled whole squid marinated in lime extract or fish sauce, best enjoyed in coastal cities like Sihanoukville.

3. Bok L’hong: A papaya salad seasoned with basil, peas, peanuts, tomatoes, crab, fish, and chilies, dressed with lime extract, fish sauce, and prahok.

4. Bai Sach Chrouk: A popular Cambodian breakfast dish made with sliced pork marinated in soy sauce and grilled, served with rice and cucumber.

5. Fish Amok: A savory dish resembling a pudding, made with curry, ginger, lemongrass, turmeric, and coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

6. Nom Banh Chok: Cambodia’s favorite noodle dish, featuring thin rice noodles topped with green fish sauce, bean sprouts, banana flower, cucumber, and vegetables.

7. Lok Lak: A traditional Cambodian dish made with marinated beef stir-fried with onions, served with rice and a dipping sauce.

Lok Lak

Lok Lak is one of the best local foods in Cambodia. It is a stir-fried beef dish that comes in various variations depending on the chef. The beef is marinated overnight in a mixture of fish sauce, soy sauce, lemon extract, pepper, and oyster sauce, giving it a unique and special taste. Lok Lak is typically served with fresh vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, shallots, and sliced cucumber. Additionally, the beef can be substituted with pork, chicken, or tofu, and is often accompanied by rice, fried eggs, sauce, and fresh lettuce.

Pepper Crab

Pepper Crab is a delicious seafood dish commonly found in coastal areas of Cambodia. The crabs are freshly caught from the ocean and cooked in street stall kitchens. In places like Kep town, known for its crab market, you can find multiple restaurants offering this menu with fresh ingredients. The crab is seasoned with oyster and soy sauce, along with a hint of sugar, and stir-fried with green peppercorns to create a spicy, sweet, sour, and savory flavor profile.

Nom Plae Ai

Nom Plae Ai is a popular Cambodian dessert or snack made from rice flour filled with brown sugar and shaped into small ball-like forms. This sweet treat is served with shredded coconut, adding a hint of savory flavor and aroma. Nom Plae Ai is commonly found in traditional markets and street stalls, offering a budget-friendly option for those with a sweet tooth.

Fruit Shake

Fruit Shake is a refreshing beverage made from fresh fruits blended with ice and condensed milk. The drink has a smooth and sweet taste, with mango being the most popular fruit used. Fruit Shakes can be found in pubs or bars in major cities, offering a cool and fruity option to quench your thirst.

Explore more local foods in Cambodia to tantalize your taste buds. These dishes are just a glimpse of the culinary delights waiting for you in this vibrant country.

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