Cambodia is a dream destination for food lovers—an enticing mix of bold spices, fresh herbs, and deep traditions that tell a story with every bite. From humble street carts to bustling markets and refined restaurants, the country’s cuisine is as rich and complex as its history. Here’s a flavour-packed guide to help you eat your way through the Kingdom of Wonder.
Must-Try Cambodian Dishes
- Fish Amok
This is Cambodia’s national dish—and for good reason. A rich, creamy curry made with freshwater fish, coconut milk, and kroeung (a fragrant herb paste), Fish Amok is traditionally steamed in banana leaves. Mild, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic.
- Samlor Korkor
One of Cambodia’s oldest dishes, this hearty vegetable stew is a daily staple for many locals. Often made with pork or catfish and a variety of seasonal vegetables, it’s thickened with crushed rice and infused with green kroeung.
- Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
A popular breakfast dish, Nom Banh Chok consists of rice noodles topped with a green fish gravy and loads of crisp raw vegetables and herbs. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with texture.
- Lok Lak
Tender stir-fried beef served over crisp lettuce, tomato, and cucumber slices, often with a fried egg on top. It’s usually accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce made with lime juice and Kampot pepper.
- Bai Sach Chrouk
A simple yet delicious breakfast of grilled pork over broken rice, often served with pickled vegetables and a side of soup. It’s smoky, sweet, and comforting.
Street Food Hotspots
Phnom Penh:
Head to the Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung) or Central Market (Phsar Thmei) for skewers, deep-fried snacks, and refreshing sugarcane juice.
Siem Reap:
Check out the vibrant Night Market or Pub Street area—ideal for trying grilled frogs, banana pancakes, or red ant stir-fry if you’re feeling adventurous!
Battambang:
Known for its relaxed vibe and creative culinary scene. Try the riverside stalls for fresh spring rolls and crispy rice cakes.
Ingredients to Know
- Kroeung: The signature Cambodian spice paste made from lemongrass, turmeric, galangal, garlic, and kaffir lime.
- Prahok: Fermented fish paste used as a seasoning—intensely savoury and packed with umami.
- Kampot Pepper: Grown in southern Cambodia, this premium pepper is floral, spicy, and world-renowned.
Drinks & Desserts
- Sugarcane Juice: Pressed fresh on the street—cool, sweet, and refreshing.
- Teuk Krolok: A fruit shake blended with sweetened condensed milk, ice, and sometimes raw egg—surprisingly addictive!
- Num Ansom Chek: Sticky rice and banana wrapped in banana leaves, often enjoyed during festivals.
- Cha Houy Teuk: A colourful dessert of jelly, mung beans, and coconut milk served over crushed ice.
Foodie Experiences
- Cooking Classes in Siem Reap: Learn to make traditional dishes with a market tour included.
- Prahok Tasting Tours: For the bold foodie, try the many variations of this fermented delicacy.
- Kampot Pepper Farm Tours: Discover how this prized ingredient is grown, harvested, and used in cooking.
Final Bite
Cambodia’s culinary scene is humble yet vibrant, soulful yet sophisticated. It’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s about the people, the history, and the traditions that shape every dish. Whether you’re enjoying a $1 bowl of noodles from a street cart or a beautifully plated Fish Amok in a riverside restaurant, the food in Cambodia will leave your heart (and stomach) full.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to eat like a local—Cambodia’s greatest flavours are often found off the beaten path.
