Explore local markets and street stalls to discover the Cambodian cuisine which offers a delightful variety of flavour and textures thanks to the abundance of fresh ingredients used. Here are 10 of the most delicious things to eat and drink in Cambodia.

What to Eat and Drink in Cambodia

Foods:

Fish Amok: A signature Cambodian dish consisting of fish cooked in a creamy coconut milk-based curry with lemongrass, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves, steamed in banana leaves for added flavour.

Lok Lak: A stir-fry dish made typically with marinated beef, cooked with garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper. It’s usually served with fresh vegetables, rice, and a dipping sauce made from lime juice, salt, and black pepper.

Kuy Teav: Cambodian noodle soup typically made with a clear pork or beef broth, rice noodles, and topped with sliced pork, beef, or prawns, along with bean sprouts, green onions, coriander, and fried garlic. Chili paste and lime are often served on the side for added flavour.

Bai Sach Chrouk: A popular breakfast dish consisting of thinly sliced pork marinated in coconut milk, garlic, and soy sauce, then grilled and served with rice and fresh cucumber and other pickled vegetables.

Nom Banh Chok: Known as Cambodian noodle soup, it’s another traditional breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy made from lemongrass, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves, served with fresh herbs and raw vegetables.

Snacks/Desserts:

Num Pang: A Cambodian-style baguette sandwich (similar to a Vietnamese banh mi) filled with various ingredients such as grilled meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and spicy chili sauce.

Banana Blossom Salad: A refreshing salad made from shredded banana blossom mixed with shredded chicken or pork, mint leaves, roasted peanuts, served with a tangy dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar.

Num Kroch: Traditional Cambodian coconut rice cakes cooked in small clay molds, often filled with sweet or savory ingredients such as corn, green onions, or mung beans. After being deep fried they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Drinks:

Coffee: Cambodian iced coffee is made by brewing strong coffee with condensed milk, giving it a sweet and creamy flavor. It’s often served over ice for a refreshing treat, especially in the hot Cambodian climate.

Fruit Juice: There are a huge variety of fruits available and almost all of them can be juiced so try a few different ones to find your favourite.

What is your favourite food in Cambodia?

Let me know in the comments.