Traditional Cambodian recipes are very unique and different from most other types of traditional Cambodian food. It has similarities to other foods in Asia, but this food offers something special.
All About Cambodian Food History
Cambodian food has been influenced by foods from India, China, Thailand, Laos, and France. This mixture of influences is what makes Cambodian food so special.
Traditional Cambodian recipes use a wide range of fruits and vegetables making it one of the healthiest food choices on the planet. So, if you’re looking for something healthy to eat you should add some Cambodian meals to your diet.
A lot of passion and care is put into making Cambodian food. Many of the dishes you will find in this part of the world are slowly cooked all day. The Cambodian people are family orientated and often cook meals for many people to enjoy.
Most Cambodian food is cooked over an open fire or using a gas stove. This adds extra flavor to most meals. Food cooked by street vendors is especially sought after by residents. Cambodian food is affordable and most of what goes into a meal is locally sourced.
5 Most Popular Cambodian Dishes
Now that you are more familiar with Cambodian food, let’s look at some of the traditional Cambodian recipes that have made this food so popular.
1. Amok
Amok is a simple dish that is also known as coconut curry fish. This dish is often prepared in regions of the country that has access to lakes and rivers. It is a staple in the homes of many Cambodians.
2. Samlar Kari
If you love curry, then you will love Samlar Kari. This is traditional Cambodian curry dish is made from cut-up chicken that is mixed with a rich coconut sauce. To flavor, this dish Cambodian’s, use a mixture of palm sugar, fish paste, shrimp paste, and other spices. It is often served with bamboo shoots and purple sweet potatoes.
3. Lok Lak
Lok Lak is a Cambodian stir-fry dish that can be made from different types of meat including beef, fish, and shrimp. The beef version of this dish is served on a bed of lettuce and topped with onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes. This is one of those traditional Cambodian recipes that is shared with the entire family.
4. Kampot Pepper Crab
If you love seafood, then you will love this dish. Kampot Pepper Crab is one of the most famous traditional Cambodian recipes that you can find. This dish originated in the Kampot region of the country and contains freshly caught crabs that are fried whole. Once cooked it is covered with garlic sauce and green peppercorns.
5. Yaohon
One of the most popular traditional Cambodian recipes is Yaohon. This traditional dish is cooked in a hot pot and is often shared between family and friends. In the hot pot, you will find a variety of different meats, seafood, and vegetables. Each hot pot is prepared differently depending on the region it is cooked. In most areas, Yaohon is prepared with a broth of coconut milk, cream, and chicken stock.
5 Most Popular Questions About Cambodian Food
Is Cambodian Food Spicy?
Cambodian food can be spicy, however, many dishes are not. Many Cambodian traditional Cambodian recipes are sour rather than hot.
What Is the Most Famous Cambodian Dish?
The most famous of all Cambodian traditional Cambodian recipes has to be Amok or coconut curry fish. This dish is served at home and in many restaurants around the country. If you have ever tried this dish you will agree that it is one of the most flavorful of all Cambodian foods.
Is Cambodian Food the Same as Thai?
While traditional Cambodian food and Thai food share some of the same ingredients, they are not the same. Thai food is often spicier than most authentic Cambodian recipes which helps set the two cuisines apart from one another.
What Time Do People in Cambodia Eat Breakfast?
People in Cambodia eat their breakfast earlier than many people in the west. Most Cambodians eat breakfast between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM.
Is Cambodian Food Healthy?
When it comes to healthy food traditional Cambodian food is one of the healthiest options on earth. Authentic Cambodian recipes are made from fruits, vegetables, and lean meats such as fish, seafood, and pork.
30 Super Easy Traditional Cambodian Recipes
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1. Cambodian Kaw Sach Chrouk
Kaw Sach Chrouk is a traditional Cambodian dish. It consists of marinated pork, typically grilled over charcoal, and served with a tangy dipping sauce. The pork is seasoned with a blend of garlic, lemongrass, soy sauce, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and succulent dish that is popular throughout Cambodia.
Cambodian Chicken Amok is a classic Cambodian dish that features tender chicken cooked in a fragrant curry paste made from lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and other spices. It is then simmered in coconut milk and served in a banana leaf cup, resulting in a creamy and aromatic delicacy.
Cambodian Coconut Shrimp Soup is a delightful and flavorful dish. It is made with succulent shrimp cooked in a creamy coconut milk broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices like lemongrass, ginger, and kaffir lime leaves. The soup is rich, fragrant, and balanced with a hint of spiciness, creating a satisfying and comforting culinary experience.
4. Cambodian Recipe for Pepper Beef (Lok Lak)
Pepper Beef, known as Lok Lak, is a beloved Cambodian dish that features tender strips of beef stir-fried with black pepper, garlic, soy sauce, and other flavorful seasonings. The beef is cooked until it reaches the perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness. Lok Lak is traditionally served on a bed of fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, topped with a fried egg. The dish is often accompanied by a tangy lime and black pepper dipping sauce, adding an extra layer of zing. It is a flavorful and satisfying choice in Cambodian cuisine.
5. Authentic Cambodian Recipe for Kroeung
Kroeun is a traditional Cambodian recipe that features a flavorful marinade used to prepare various grilled meats. The marinade is made by blending lemongrass, garlic, shallots, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and other spices. The resulting mixture is then used to marinate the meat, infusing it with a fragrant and tangy taste. Once grilled, Kroeun imparts a delicious smoky flavor to the meat, making it a popular and mouthwatering Cambodian dish.
6. Cambodian Food (Khmer) Fish Amok Recipe
Cambodian Lok Lak is a popular and flavorful dish that features tender strips of beef sautéed with a delectable combination of garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and lime juice. The beef is typically served on a bed of fresh lettuce, cucumber, and tomato slices. It is often accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce made with lime juice, black pepper, and salt. The vibrant flavors and contrasting textures of Lok Lak create a satisfying and mouthwatering culinary experience.
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7. Cambodian Lok Lak Recipe
Cambodian Lok Lak is a popular and flavorful dish that features tender strips of beef sautéed with a delectable combination of garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and lime juice. The beef is typically served on a bed of fresh lettuce, cucumber, and tomato slices. It is often accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce made with lime juice, black pepper, and salt. The vibrant flavors and contrasting textures of Lok Lak create a satisfying and mouthwatering culinary experience.
8. Cambodian Sweet-and-Sour Soup
Cambodian Sweet-and-Sour Soup, also known as “Somlar Machu Kreung,” is a delightful and tangy soup that balances the flavors of sweetness and sourness. It typically features a combination of vegetables, such as tomatoes, pineapple, and onions, cooked in a savory broth made from tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar. The soup may also include protein such as shrimp, fish, or chicken. The result is a refreshing and flavorful soup with a perfect harmony of sweet and sour notes, making it a beloved Cambodian dish.
9. Cambodian Num Bahn Chok: Cambodian Rice Noodle Recipe
Cambodian Num Bahn Chok is a traditional dish that consists of rice noodles served with a flavorful fish-based curry sauce and an array of fresh herbs and vegetables. The dish often includes toppings like bean sprouts, cucumber, mint, and banana flower. The curry sauce is made with ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and coconut milk, creating a rich and fragrant flavor profile. Num Bahn Chok is a popular breakfast or lunch option in Cambodia, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
10. Samlor Kako Recipe
Samlor Kako is a traditional Cambodian dish that is known for its bold and rich flavors. It is a hearty and aromatic soup that typically includes a variety of ingredients such as pork, beef, or seafood, along with vegetables like cabbage, green beans, carrots, and eggplant. The soup is flavored with a combination of spices and herbs like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves. Samlor Kako is often enjoyed with a side of rice and is cherished for its comforting and satisfying nature..
11. Cambodian Chicken-and-Rice Soup with Shrimp
Cambodian Chicken-and-Rice Soup with Shrimp, known as “Bai Sach Chrouk Ktiss,” is a delicious and comforting dish. It features tender chicken and succulent shrimp cooked in a flavorful broth made with rice, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and other aromatic spices. The soup is often garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions, and served with a side of fragrant jasmine rice. This Cambodian soup offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal.
12. Lort Cha Traditional Cambodian Recipe
Lort Cha is a traditional Cambodian dish that is cherished for its unique combination of flavors and textures. It is a stir-fried noodle dish that typically features wide rice noodles, mixed with a variety of ingredients such as beef, chicken, or seafood, along with an assortment of vegetables like bok choy, carrots, and bean sprouts. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other spices, giving it a savory and slightly sweet taste. Lort Cha is often garnished with fresh herbs and served hot, offering a delightful and satisfying meal option in Cambodian cuisine.
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13. Kuy Teav Cambodian Recipe
Kuy Teav is a beloved and popular Cambodian noodle soup dish that is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a comforting meal. It features rice noodles in a flavorful broth, typically made from a combination of pork or beef bones, aromatic herbs, and spices. The soup is often garnished with ingredients like sliced pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, green onions, and fried garlic. Kuy Teav offers a harmonious balance of flavors, combining the umami richness of the broth with the freshness of the garnishes, resulting in a satisfying and delicious culinary experience.
14. Cambodian Chicken Red Curry
Cambodian Chicken Red Curry, also known as “Saraman,” is a delightful and aromatic dish that showcases the flavors of Cambodia. It features tender chicken pieces cooked in a vibrant red curry sauce made from a blend of spices such as lemongrass, galangal, garlic, shallots, and red chilies. The curry is further enriched with coconut milk, which lends a creamy and luscious texture. The dish often includes vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, adding both color and substance. Cambodian Chicken Red Curry offers a perfect balance of spiciness, sweetness, and creaminess, creating a memorable and satisfying meal.
15. Samlor Kako: Khmer Small Fish and Vegetable Stew
Samlor Kako, also known as Cambodian sour soup, is a popular and flavorful dish in Cambodian cuisine. It is a tangy and savory soup made with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, meat, and fish. The soup typically includes ingredients like lemongrass, tamarind paste, galangal, lime leaves, and fish sauce to create its distinct sour taste. Common additions may include bamboo shoots, mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs. Samlor Kako offers a refreshing and comforting combination of flavors, making it a beloved soup in Cambodian culture.
16. Traditional Cambodian Prawn Amok Recipe
Cambodian Prawn Amok is a delicious and aromatic dish that highlights the delicate flavors of prawns cooked in a creamy coconut curry. The prawns are marinated in a mixture of lemongrass, turmeric, garlic, and other spices before being gently simmered in a sauce made from coconut milk, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and fish sauce. The dish is traditionally steamed in banana leaf cups, allowing the flavors to infuse and intensify. Cambodian Prawn Amok is a delightful balance of creamy, fragrant, and mildly spicy notes, making it a popular and flavorful Cambodian specialty.
17. Cambodian Roti Recipe
Cambodian Roti is a delightful and popular street food in Cambodia. Inspired by Indian cuisine, Cambodian Roti is a flaky and crispy flatbread that is typically served with a variety of sweet or savory toppings. The dough is kneaded, stretched, and then cooked on a hot griddle until it turns golden brown. It can be enjoyed plain or filled with ingredients like bananas, condensed milk, chocolate, or even savory fillings like egg and vegetables. Cambodian Roti is a versatile and delicious treat that is loved by locals and visitors alike for its crispy texture and delectable flavor combinations.
18. Cambodian Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Cambodian Lemongrass Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Cambodian cuisine. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, shallots, ginger, and other spices, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat. The chicken is then stir-fried until cooked and served with a side of jasmine rice or as part of a larger Cambodian meal. The lemongrass imparts a zesty and citrusy note to the dish, while the other spices add depth and complexity. Cambodian Lemongrass Chicken offers a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and fragrant flavors, making it a favorite in Cambodian cuisine.
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19. Cambodian Stuffed Chicken Wing Recipe
Cambodian Stuffed Chicken Wing, known as “Somlor Machu Ktiss,” is a unique and flavorful dish that showcases the creativity of Cambodian cuisine. It involves deboning chicken wings while keeping the skin intact, creating a pocket that can be filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The filling typically includes ingredients such as minced pork, mushrooms, carrots, and a blend of spices like garlic, shallots, and lemongrass. The stuffed wings are then deep-fried until golden and crispy. The result is a delectable combination of juicy chicken, savory filling, and crispy skin, offering a delightful texture and taste experience. Cambodian Stuffed Chicken Wings are often served as an appetizer or part of a larger meal, and they are beloved for their unique presentation and delicious flavors.
20. Cambodian Black Pepper Beef (Lok Lak)
Cambodian Black Pepper Beef, also known as Lok Lak, features tender strips of beef stir-fried with black pepper, garlic, and soy sauce. It offers a savory and smoky flavor profile, complemented by the natural sweetness of the beef. Lok Lak is a popular and flavorful dish in Cambodian cuisine.
21. Cambodian Chicken Curry Recipe
Cambodian Chicken Curry is a fragrant and comforting dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich and aromatic curry sauce. The curry is made with a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cardamom, creating a vibrant and flavorful base. The chicken is cooked until tender, absorbing the flavors of the curry. The dish is often served with steamed rice or crusty bread, allowing diners to savor the delicious and aromatic sauce with every bite.
22. Cambodian Sour Soup Recipe
Cambodian Sour Soup, known as “Samlor Machu,” is a tangy and flavorful dish that showcases the distinctive flavors of Cambodian cuisine. The soup is typically made with a combination of vegetables, herbs, and meat or seafood, simmered in a sour broth made from tamarind paste, lime juice, and other souring agents. The soup is known for its refreshing and zesty taste, balanced with the savory flavors of the ingredients. It is often enjoyed as a comforting and nourishing meal in Cambodian households.
23. Cambodian Tuk Trey Recipe
Cambodian Tuk Trey, also known as “Fish Sauce Dip,” is a popular and versatile condiment in Cambodian cuisine. It is made by combining fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, chili peppers, and sometimes other ingredients like palm sugar or fermented fish. The result is a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy dipping sauce that complements a variety of dishes. Tuk Trey is commonly used as a dipping sauce for grilled meats, spring rolls, or served alongside fresh vegetables to add a burst of flavor to meals.
24. Cambodian Grilled Eggplant
Cambodian Grilled Eggplant is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the natural smokiness and creamy texture of eggplant. The eggplant is grilled until charred on the outside and tender on the inside, enhancing its natural flavors. It is often served with a zesty dipping sauce made from lime juice, garlic, chili peppers, and fish sauce. The combination of the smoky eggplant and tangy sauce creates a delicious and satisfying dish that is enjoyed as a side or part of a larger meal.
25. Chicken Samlá Curry
Chicken Samlá Curry is a delicious and aromatic Cambodian dish. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a flavorful curry sauce made from a blend of spices such as lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves. The curry is enriched with coconut milk, giving it a creamy and rich texture. The dish offers a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, creating a delightful taste experience. It is commonly served with steamed rice, allowing diners to savor every delicious bite.
26. Chamhoi Spicy Steamed Fish Recipe
Chamhoi Spicy Steamed Fish is a tantalizing Cambodian dish that highlights the delicate flavors of fish with a spicy twist. A whole fish, typically tilapia or snapper, is steamed to perfection and topped with a fiery sauce made from chili peppers, garlic, lemongrass, and other aromatic spices. The dish offers a harmonious blend of heat, tanginess, and freshness. The tender fish absorbs the vibrant flavors of the sauce, creating a mouthwatering and memorable culinary experience. It is often enjoyed with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables.
27. Cambodian Saom Omelette Recipe
Cambodian Saom Omelette is a delectable dish that combines the simplicity of an omelette with the bold flavors of Cambodia. The omelette is made by whisking together eggs with fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sugar. It is then pan-fried until golden and fluffy. Saom Omelette is often served with a tangy and savory dipping sauce made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili peppers, adding an extra layer of flavor. It is a popular and satisfying dish enjoyed for breakfast or as part of a larger meal.
28. Pork and Rice (Bai Sach Chrouk)
Bai Sach Chrouk is a popular Cambodian breakfast dish that features succulent grilled pork served with rice and fresh accompaniments. Thinly sliced pork is marinated in a mixture of garlic, soy sauce, and coconut milk before being grilled to perfection. The grilled pork is then served over fragrant jasmine rice, accompanied by pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, and a side of savory dipping sauce. Bai Sach Chrouk offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a beloved morning meal in Cambodia.
29. Cambodian Beef Skewers
Cambodian Beef Skewers, known as “Sach Ko Ang” in Khmer, are a flavorful and satisfying dish. Thin strips of beef are marinated in a blend of lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, and other spices. The marinated beef is then threaded onto skewers and grilled until tender and charred. The skewers are often served with a side of rice, pickled vegetables, and a tangy dipping sauce. Cambodian Beef Skewers offer a delicious combination of smoky, savory, and aromatic flavors, making them a popular street food and appetizer.
30. Cambodian Pahut (Fish Cakes)
Cambodian Pahut, also known as Fish Cakes, are a delightful and flavorful treat. They are made by blending minced fish, typically catfish or snakehead fish, with a mixture of herbs, spices, and seasonings such as garlic, shallots, lemongrass, and fish sauce. The mixture is then formed into patties and deep-fried until golden and crispy. Cambodian Pahut are enjoyed as a snack or appetizer and often served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce, offering a savory and satisfying culinary experience.
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