Cambodian cuisine, often overshadowed by its neighbors Thailand and Vietnam, is a treasure trove of rich flavors and unique dishes. Influenced by centuries of cultural exchange with India, China, and France, Cambodian food reflects the country’s history and agricultural bounty.
Known locally as Khmer cuisine, the dishes are characterized by a delicate balance of sweet, salty, sour, and bitter flavors, often accompanied by rice, the country’s staple. Here are seven must-try traditional Cambodian dishes and where to experience them during your vacation in Cambodia.
Key Takeaways
- Cambodian cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, reflecting the country’s rich history, culture, and traditions
- From the creamy Fish Amok to the comforting Samlor Korkor, each dish tells a story of the land and its people
- By exploring these traditional foods, you’ll not only satisfy your taste buds but also gain a deeper appreciation for Cambodia’s culinary heritage
Fish Amok: Cambodia’s Iconic Dish

Fish Amok is a fragrant and creamy curry made with freshwater fish, coconut milk, lemongrass, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves. Steamed in banana leaves and often served with rice, it has a light, custard-like texture and a subtle, aromatic flavor that’s distinctly Cambodian.
Where to Try It
Head to Friends the Restaurant in Phnom Penh for a modern take on Fish Amok, or visit Chanrey Tree in Siem Reap for an authentic experience in a charming riverside setting.
Nom Banh Chok: Khmer Noodles

Nom Banh Chok, often referred to as “Khmer noodles,” is a popular breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a green curry sauce made from fish, coconut milk, and fragrant herbs. Fresh vegetables like bean sprouts, banana blossoms, and cucumbers are served alongside, making it a refreshing yet filling start to the day.
Where to Try It
Try this dish at local markets in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, such as Phsar Leu Thom Thmey Market. For a more refined version, visit Khmer Kitchen Restaurant in Siem Reap.
Beef Lok Lak: Stir-Fried Goodness

Beef Lok Lak is a savory stir-fry of tender beef marinated in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and lime juice, served atop a bed of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. It’s often accompanied by a dipping sauce made from lime juice, salt, and Kampot pepper, a local specialty.
Where to Try It
Savor Lok Lak at Romdeng in Phnom Penh, a restaurant known for its traditional dishes with a social mission, or try it at Malin Restaurant in Siem Reap for a hearty meal.
Samlor Korkor: Cambodian Vegetable Soup

Samlor Korkor is a hearty soup made with a variety of vegetables, including green papaya, eggplant, and long beans, cooked with fish or pork in a broth thickened by toasted rice powder. Often called Cambodia’s “national soup,” it’s a comforting dish that showcases the country’s use of fresh, local ingredients.
Where to Try It
Visit The Sugar Palm in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, where this traditional soup is prepared with care and authenticity.
Prahok Ktis: Fermented Fish Dip

Prahok Ktis is a rich and flavorful dip made from prahok (fermented fish), minced pork, coconut milk, and fragrant spices. It’s served with an assortment of raw vegetables like cucumber, eggplant, and green mango for dipping, offering a balance of salty, creamy, and tangy flavors.
Where to Try It
Sample Prahok Ktis at Elephant Bar in Phnom Penh, which offers a mix of traditional and contemporary Khmer dishes, or visit Viroth’s Restaurant in Siem Reap for an upscale take.
Khmer Red Curry: Mild and Creamy

Khmer Red Curry is a milder, less spicy version of its Thai counterpart, made with coconut milk, red curry paste, and ingredients like chicken, sweet potatoes, eggplant, and green beans. It’s commonly served with a baguette, a nod to Cambodia’s French colonial past.
Where to Try It
Enjoy Khmer Red Curry at Khmer Surin Restaurant in Phnom Penh, known for its beautiful ambiance and authentic flavors, or at Amok Restaurant in Siem Reap.
Ang Dtray-Meuk: Grilled Squid

A popular coastal dish, Ang Dtray-Meuk features fresh squid marinated in a blend of lime juice, fish sauce, and garlic, then grilled over charcoal. It’s typically served with a tangy dipping sauce made from lime juice, Kampot pepper, and salt.
Where to Try It
Find this dish at the seafood stalls along Ochheuteal Beach in Sihanoukville or at the Kep Crab Market, where the squid is incredibly fresh.
Final Word
Cambodian cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, reflecting the country’s rich history, culture, and traditions. From the creamy Fish Amok to the comforting Samlor Korkor, each dish tells a story of the land and its people.
By exploring these traditional foods, you’ll not only satisfy your taste buds but also gain a deeper appreciation for Cambodia’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re indulging in street food in Phnom Penh, dining at a riverside restaurant in Siem Reap, or enjoying fresh seafood by the coast, Cambodian food promises an unforgettable culinary journey.
Don’t miss the chance to savor these dishes and immerse yourself in the flavors of this enchanting country. Bon appétit, or as the locals say, nyam bai!
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