Asian Food Guide: Cambodian Food for Beginners

Heading to Cambodia (SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA TRAVEL) and wondering what to expect from its food? You’re in for a treat! If you're a fan of Asian cuisine, Cambodian food offers a delightful mix of flavors. Drawing influences from Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Indonesia, the food ranges from fresh and subtle to bold and spicy. Whether you’re at a street stall, casual eatery, or upscale restaurant, there’s something to suit every palate. And don’t worry, vegetarians will find plenty of flavorful options, too.

How to Order Cambodian Food

Not speaking Cambodian? No problem! When you're at street food stalls, just point to the dish you want. Vendors are used to tourists, and a smile will go a long way. In restaurants, menus usually have pictures and sometimes English translations, making it easy to order. Be mindful of portion sizes, though - they might surprise you,

 

Affordable & Value for Money

Cambodian food is affordable, even for travelers from other Asian countries. For Westerners, the exchange rates make dining out even more cost-effective. It’s worth converting prices into your home currency to get a sense of how much you’re paying compared to what you’d spend back home.

 

Popular Cambodian Dishes

Cambodian cuisine offers a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. Vegetarian stir-fries and fresh salads are staples. Stir-fries are typically prepared with garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of umami, and salads feature fresh vegetables, shallots, and nuts for a burst of flavor. Cambodian soups, influenced by Chinese broths, also range from bold to subtle, providing a flavorful experience without compromising on health (MANGO SALAD RECIPE).

One savory dish you'll find is pork and boiled eggs in soy sauce. This simple yet flavorful dish features tender pork and hard-boiled eggs braised in a savory soy sauce broth, often with garlic, sugar, and other seasonings. It’s a popular comfort food, often enjoyed with a bowl of rice.

 

No Cambodian meal is complete without a tangy, spicy dip, and rice is the staple accompaniment, just like in many other Asian countries.

Seafood Delights
Fresh seafood is another highlight, with options like spicy crabs, crispy fried calamari, and succulent prawns. You can also enjoy refreshing Vietnamese-style rolls, which are a popular snack in Cambodia (SPICY LEMONGRASS FISH RECIPE).

Must-Try Dish: Cambodian Coconut Curry
One dish you shouldn’t miss is the Cambodian Coconut Curry, often served in a young coconut. This rich, creamy dish features a mix of vegetables and your choice of protein (chicken or fish), all infused with coconut milk and spices like turmeric and lemongrass. It’s an aromatic, mildly spiced curry that's a true Cambodian delight.

Another fantastic option to try is the Khmer Coconut Milk Spicy Vegetable Curry. This one is just as flavorful, with loads of fresh vegetables swimming in a fragrant coconut milk base. Packed with spices and a delicious depth of flavor, it's a must-try for those who love a satisfying vegetarian curry.

Cambodian Desserts

Cambodian desserts are equally exciting. Many feature coconut milk and tropical fruits like mango. One popular dessert is Sankhya Lapov (Pumpkin Custard), made by steaming a hollowed-out pumpkin filled with sweet coconut custard.

 

Another unique treat is the star apple, a sweet, custard-like fruit that’s commonly found in Cambodia and Southeast Asia. It has a purple to greenish skin, and when cut open, it reveals a star-shaped pattern inside.

Unique Delicacies

Cambodia also offers some unique delicacies for the adventurous eater. One such dish is Pon Tian, or Balut - a fertilized duck embryo boiled and eaten directly from the shell, or roasted over fire. Though unusual to some, it’s a high-protein snack and an important part of Cambodia's food culture.

Ready to Taste Cambodia’s Flavors?
When you’re in Cambodia, take the time to explore the food scene - it’s an essential part of the experience. With so many flavors to enjoy, there’s something for every palate. 

Ms. Nava, a spirited Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at the vibrant age of 58. With over 22 years as a lecturer, including at Curtin University’s Degree Twinning Program, she dreams of traveling 365 days a year. However, she embarks on her enchanting 'Zen Journeys' whenever her yoga instruction, coaching, and counseling profits allow her to.