Cambodia Food Guide

Cambodian cuisine is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia, with a unique blend of flavors and influences. From street food to high-end restaurants, the food scene in Cambodia offers something for everyone. The country's rich history and diverse cultural influences have shaped its cuisine into a delicious and unique experience.

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Food destinations in Cambodia

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Food knowledge

Cambodia food culture

Cambodian cuisine is a blend of flavors and influences from neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, as well as French colonialism. Rice is a staple in almost every meal, and the use of herbs, spices, and fresh vegetables is prominent. Cambodian food is known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors, and is often accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces.

What are authentic and traditional Cambodian ingredients?

Explore the essence of Cambodia through its key ingredients. Central to Cambodian cuisine are Rice, Fish sauce, Lemongrass, Galangal, Kaffir lime leaves, Chilies. Each plays a crucial role in defining the country's distinct culinary landscape. Discover the flavors of Cambodia with our city guides.

Cambodian cooking styles
Grilling, Stir-frying, Boiling, Steaming
Cambodian specialities
Amok, Lok Lak, Kuy Teav, Bai Sach Chrouk

Best food to eat in Cambodia

This is a list of the must have dishes in Cambodia. Ranked on best food score.

Crab with Kampot Pepper

Kep is known for its delicious seafood, and the crab with Kampot pepper is a must-try dish. The fresh crab is cooked with the famous Kampot pepper, which is known for its unique flavor and aroma. The dish is usually served with rice or noodles and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Ingredients
Fresh crab, Kampot pepper, Rice or noodles

Fish Amok

A must-try dish when in Phnom Penh, Fish Amok is a traditional Cambodian dish made with fish, coconut milk, lemongrass, and kroeung (a paste made from spices and herbs). The ingredients are steamed in a banana leaf, giving it a unique flavor and aroma. This dish is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Ingredients
Fish, Coconut Milk, Lemongrass

Fish Amok

Fish Amok is a traditional Cambodian dish that is a must-try when visiting Kep. The dish consists of fish, usually catfish, cooked in a coconut milk-based curry and served in a banana leaf. The flavors of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal make this dish unique and delicious.

Ingredients
Fish, Coconut milk, Lemongrass, Kaffir lime leaves, Galangal

Grilled Squid

Grilled squid is a popular street food in Kep and is a great option for those looking for a quick and tasty snack. The squid is grilled over charcoal and served with a spicy dipping sauce. The dish is simple yet delicious and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Ingredients
Squid, Spicy dipping sauce

Kep Crab Fried Rice

Kep Crab Fried Rice is a delicious and simple dish that is a must-try when visiting Kep. The dish consists of fried rice with fresh crab meat, eggs, and vegetables. The flavors of the crab meat and vegetables make this dish a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Ingredients
Crab meat, Rice, Eggs, Vegetables

Kep Crab Soup

Kep Crab Soup is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a hot day. The soup consists of fresh crab meat, vegetables, and rice noodles in a clear broth. The flavors of the crab meat and vegetables make this dish a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Ingredients
Crab meat, Vegetables, Rice noodles, Clear broth

Lok Lak

Lok Lak is a popular Cambodian dish that is also commonly found in Kep. The dish consists of cubed beef marinated in soy sauce and served with a tangy dipping sauce and a side of rice. The beef is usually cooked with onions and tomatoes, giving it a sweet and savory flavor.

Ingredients
Beef, Soy sauce, Onions, Tomatoes, Rice, Tangy dipping sauce

Lok Lak

Lok Lak is a popular Khmer dish made with stir-fried beef, peppers, onions, and served with a side of rice and a lime-pepper dipping sauce. The beef is marinated in a mixture of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar before being cooked to perfection. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients
Beef, Peppers, Onions

Stir-fried Morning Glory

Stir-fried Morning Glory is a popular vegetable dish in Cambodia and can be found in many restaurants in Kep. The dish consists of morning glory, also known as water spinach, stir-fried with garlic and chili. The dish is simple yet flavorful and is a great option for vegetarians.

Ingredients
Morning glory, Garlic, Chili

Bai Sach Chrouk

Bai Sach Chrouk is a popular breakfast dish in Cambodia. It consists of grilled pork served with rice, pickled vegetables, and a side of broth. The pork is marinated in a mixture of garlic, coconut milk, and soy sauce before being grilled to perfection. This dish is simple yet flavorful and will give you the energy you need to start your day.

Ingredients
Pork, Rice, Pickled Vegetables