There is no doubt that Cambodia is an engrossing and multi-faceted nation that will capture the imagination of the discerning traveller. This country is particularly known for cultural attractions like the famed Angkor complex. Natural wonders like its beautiful beaches and mountains also figure amongst its attractions. Additionally, Cambodia happens to be famed for its distinctive and delectable cuisine; some of the outstanding dishes that you should sample during your visit here are described below.
Fish amok
An excellent option with which to start your experience of the amazing culinary creations of Cambodia is the very popular fish amok. In fact, it is generally considered to be the country’s national dish. This coconut-based curry is noted for its rich taste and smooth texture. Interestingly, the word ‘amok’ happens to be a reference to the special steaming procedure employed when making this dish; it is usually steamed (and served) wrapped in a banana leaf, which definitely adds to its distinctive taste. Fish amok is delightfully fragrant, featuring flavours such as lemongrass, ginger and turmeric. It also includes abundant coconut milk to provide a creamy texture as well.
Noodle soup (kuy teav)
Undoubtedly, a local favourite is noodle soup, which is commonly eaten for breakfast in this country. Readily available at street-side vendors, this simple yet hearty dish is made principally with rice vermicelli as well as pork or beef bones. Its tasty broth is embellished with the flavours of fried shallots, bean sprouts, green onion and garlic. Just before serving, beef or pork balls are added to the dish. It is thought that this culinary speciality originated amongst the Chinese who arrived in Cambodia for the purpose of trade.
Pepper crab
Another distinctive dish to try out during your stay in this nation is the zesty pepper crab. This food is made with freshly caught crabs and is sure to capture the interest of seafood lovers. To make this dish, whole crabs happen to be fried along with a garlic-based sauce, and then are provided with a topping of green peppercorns. These peppercorns are the famed variety cultivated in the environs of the town of Kampot. As you might expect, this flavourful pepper provides the dish with a fiery, hot taste.
Beef lok lak
Your sampling of the outstanding Cambodian gastronomic creations wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the well-known beef lok lak. In fact, this dish can be found seemingly everywhere you look, from typical local establishments to restaurants with more Western inclinations. This speciality consists of succulent stir-fried beef within a somewhat sweet brown-coloured sauce; it also generally includes a fried egg, rice, some vegetables and a pepper-based sauce. If you desire to enjoy beef lok lak, consider ordering it at a Khmer restaurant in Siem Reap, with options found at ideal accommodation providers like Anantara Angkor Resort as well.
Pork and rice (bai sach chrouk)
This flavourful dish is often referred to as Cambodia’s national breakfast dish. It includes pork that is marinated in coconut milk as well as garlic, and then grilled slowly. It is typically served accompanied by broken rice (in other words, rice grains which have been "broken" or fragmented whilst being milled) as well as fresh vegetables. Additionally, at times, a small portion of chicken broth is also served along with this dish.
Beef salad (lap Khmer)
This zesty beef salad will appeal to adventurous diners who have a penchant for unusual, distinctive dishes. As its name suggests, an important ingredient in this culinary speciality is thinly sliced beef. Rather similar to Peruvian ceviche, the beef in lap Khmer is marinated in lime juice, along with onion, garlic, Cambodian fish paste, green beans, sugar, fish sauce and bean sprouts. Additionally, the dish is topped with chilli, making it rather spicy.
