Exploring Phnom Penh's Authentic Local Cuisine

The Culinary Treasures of Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital city of Cambodia, is not only rich in history and culture but also offers a delightful array of mouthwatering culinary delights. With influences from neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, as well as its own unique flavors, Phnom Penh's cuisine is a true reflection of the country's diverse heritage.

Must-Try Cambodian Dishes

When exploring the local cuisine of Phnom Penh, be sure to sample these delicious dishes:

• Amok: A traditional Khmer dish consisting of fish, chicken, or vegetables, cooked in a rich coconut curry sauce flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal.
• Bai Sach Chrouk: Grilled pork served over rice, accompanied by pickled vegetables and a fried egg.
• Kuy Teav: A popular breakfast noodle soup made with pork or beef broth, rice noodles, and an assortment of toppings such as sliced pork, fish balls, and herbs.
• Lok Lak: Marinated beef or other meats stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and a tangy sauce.
• Num Banh Chok: Rice noodles topped with a fish-based curry sauce and an assortment of fresh vegetables.

Top Local Restaurants in Phnom Penh

For an authentic culinary experience, visit these renowned Phnom Penh restaurants:

Romdeng Restaurant

Situated in a charming colonial building, Romdeng offers a unique dining experience with a menu featuring a selection of traditional Khmer dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to try their famous deep-fried tarantulas!

Friends the Restaurant

Friends the Restaurant, known for its social cause, serves a variety of Cambodian and international dishes prepared by disadvantaged youth who are trained in the culinary arts. Indulge in their flavorful Khmer curry or their mouthwatering fish amok.

Malis

Malis is a fine-dining establishment that specializes in upscale Khmer cuisine. Their menu showcases innovative interpretations of traditional Cambodian dishes using high-quality local ingredients.

Khmer Surin

Khmer Surin is a popular restaurant that offers a diverse menu of Khmer and Thai dishes. The cozy ambiance and friendly service make it an ideal place to savor dishes like samlor kor ko, a Cambodian beef stew, or green curry with prawns.

Try Cooking Cambodian Cuisine at Home

If you'd like to recreate the flavors of Phnom Penh in your own kitchen, here are a couple of traditional Cambodian recipes:

Fish Amok

Ingredients:

• 500g white fish fillets
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar
• 2 kaffir lime leaves, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, combine the fish sauce and red curry paste. Add the fish and marinate for 30 minutes.
3. In a wok or large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the fish and cook for 3-4 minutes until half-cooked.
4. Add the coconut milk, palm sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Stir well and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
5. Serve the fish amok with steamed rice.

Bai Chha

Ingredients:

• 500g boneless pork, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, sliced shallots, oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
2. Add the pork slices to the marinade and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a wok or large pan, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until cooked through.
4. Serve the bai chha with steamed rice and enjoy!