Embarking on a Cambodian culinary journey is like diving headfirst into a world of bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and unique textures. If you are a foodie at heart, these traditional dishes are absolute must-tries when you visit.

Lok Lak
Lok lak is a beloved Khmer dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavour and can be savoured at the top restaurants in Siem Reap like The Mansion. Tender beef slices (or sometimes chicken or shrimp) are stir-fried in a light brown sauce and served on a bed of crisp lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and raw onions. It’s sometimes accompanied by rice making for a hearty meal.

Cambodian_Lok_Lak
Image by Stefan Fussan via Wikimedia Commons

Amok Trey
Amok trey is a true Cambodian classic that can be enjoyed at restaurants of Siem Reap hotels such as FCC Angkor. This fragrant fish curry is steamed in banana leaves, giving it a mousse-like texture that practically melts in your mouth. Made with kroeung, a traditional spice paste, and rich coconut milk, it’s the perfect harmony of spicy, creamy, and aromatic.

Kuy Teav
Begin your day like a local with a comforting bowl of kuy teav. This noodle soup, made with rice vermicelli and a savoury pork or beef broth, is a breakfast staple. Topped with bean sprouts, fried shallots, and green onions, it’s the ultimate morning pick-me-up. Add a squeeze of lime and a dash of garlic sauce for that extra zing!

Yaohon
Gather your friends or family and enjoy a bubbling pot of yaohon, Cambodia’s version of hot pot. With a rich coconut milk-based broth and a spread of fresh vegetables, meat, and seafood, it’s a communal feast full of flavour. Ingredients can include watercress, bok choy, beef, squid, and shrimp, all infused with the deliciously aromatic broth.