Cambodian food might be lesser known than the world-renowned dishes of neighboring countries like Vietnam and Thailand. In some extents, Cambodian cuisine is similar in concepts to the above countries. However, Khmer gastronomy is quite distinct and offers a bit of every flavor. Therefore, while in Cambodia, don’t miss the chance to explore the unique flavors of the best Cambodian foods that you should taste and discover.

What to Eat in Cambodia

It cannot be denied that Cambodian food shares many commonalities with that of its neighbors – Thailand and Vietnam. However, Thai cuisine is distinctly spicy, whereas Cambodian dishes contain less chili and sugar, and coconut milk appears less often. Cambodian food is rather mild and includes a lot of pickled and tangy flavors.

Khmer cuisine is profoundly influenced by water, rice, and freshwater fish due to Cambodia’s geographical location and climate. Typically, Cambodians consume their meals with at least three or four dishes. A meal will usually include rice – the staple food in Asian cuisines, and a soup (or locally known as samlor), served alongside the main courses. Each individual dish will be sweet, sour, salty, or bitter. Chili (either fresh, pickled, or dried) and chili sauce is served on the side, enabling diners to customize their flavors to personal preference.

Best Dishes to Eat in Cambodia

Here is the list of 10 Delicious Dishes You Must Try in Cambodia!

1. Fish Amok

Considered one of the most popular and signature dishes of Cambodia, fish amok can be easily found on menus throughout the country. Diced fillets of freshwater fish are smothered in a creamy curry-like sauce, traditionally cooked by steaming in a banana leaf shaped into a bowl, served with rice on the side. Its distinctive flavor arises from the use of “kroeung” – a Cambodian curry paste made from pounded spices and other ingredients, such as turmeric, kaffir lime, lemongrass, and shallots.

2. Samlor Korkor

While amok is sometimes regarded as the country’s signature dish, locals have voted samlor korkor as the true national dish of Cambodia. This rich soup, made from a variety of seasonal vegetables and herbs, has been a staple for Cambodians for hundreds of years. Common ingredients include unripe papaya, pumpkin, long bean, and eggplant, enriched with catfish and pork belly.

3. Nom Banh Chok

Nom banh chok, known as “Khmer noodles,” is a typical breakfast food consisting of fresh and thin rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry. The curry gravy is crafted from lemongrass, turmeric, and garlic. When enjoying this dish, fresh vegetables such as cucumbers and wild leaves are generously added on top, often accompanied by a sweet sauce known as “tuk paem” made from palm sugar and peanuts.

4. Khmer Red Curry

Cambodian red curry is milder than Thai curry and includes more herbs than spices. This rich dish features a coconut milk-based sauce with sweet potatoes and typically includes fish, chicken, or beef. It is often enjoyed with fresh rice noodles, white rice, or sliced bread, making it a favorite during special occasions.

5. Pepper Crabs

If you plan to visit the coastal town of Kep, you will discover that it is renowned for its fresh and top-quality crabs. These delicious crustaceans, caught daily, are marvelously prepared with immature green peppercorns and garlic chives, resulting in one of the best dishes in Cambodia.

6. Red Tree Ants with Beef

Various insects can be seen on the menu in Cambodia, but red tree ants with beef stands out as one of the most intriguing dishes for foreigners. The dish features stir-fried red tree ants combined with holy basil, ginger, and finely sliced beef, offering a delightful blend of flavors.

7. Beef Lok Lak

Beef lok lak is a classic Khmer dish prepared with stir-fried strips of tender beef served on a bed of lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and raw onions, often topped with a fried egg. The signature of this dish is the dipping brown sauce made with lime juice and Kampot peppers, resulting in a notably savory experience.

8. Lap Khmer

Lap Khmer, or Khmer beef salad, is an amazing dish for lovers of spicy food. The thinly sliced beef is marinated in lime juice and includes flavors of lemongrass, shallots, and fresh herbs, augmented with a burst of spice from red chilies. It serves as a perfect complement to a beer party.

9. Samlor Machu Trey

Samlor machu trey is a favorite soup in Cambodian cuisine. It is simple to make, yet offers a delicious flavor derived from Tonle Sap fish. The soup is flavored with sugar, fish sauce, and salt, along with fresh herbs, resulting in a delightful sweet, sour, and spicy taste experience.

10. Fried Insects

Adventurous tourists can try fried insects, which are sold at various locations throughout Cambodia. These include tarantulas, crickets, cockroaches, and locusts, and have gained popularity as a unique street food staple. Deep-fried with chilies and spring onions, these insects provide an excellent source of protein and are often enjoyed with a cold glass of beer.

This comprehensive list serves as a great starting point for anyone venturing to experience authentic Cambodian food. If you are open to embracing the distinct flavors of Khmer cuisine, you will be pleasantly surprised by the unique culinary experiences that await you!