Introduction: A Taste of Cambodia’s Seas
With its long coastline and abundant rivers, Cambodia boasts numerous seafood delicacies that are beloved by locals and visitors alike. From creamy curries to zesty grilled dishes, Cambodian seafood cuisine is diverse and flavorful. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular seafood dishes in Cambodia, each with its own unique blend of spices and ingredients.
Amok Trey: A Creamy Fish Delight
Amok Trey is a classic Cambodian dish that is made with fish fillets, coconut milk, kroeung (a blend of herbs and spices), eggs, and other seasonings. The ingredients are mixed together and steamed in banana leaves until the dish becomes creamy and fragrant. Amok Trey is served with rice and is often garnished with fresh herbs and red chilies.
Kdam Chaa: Stir-Fried Crab with Kampot Pepper
Kdam Chaa is a stir-fried crab dish that is seasoned with Kampot pepper, a type of pepper that is grown in Cambodia and is known for its unique flavor. The crabs are fried with garlic, shallots, and other spices until they are crispy and golden brown. Kdam Chaa is commonly served with rice or as a snack with beer.
Cha Houy Teuk: A Sweet Jellyfish Salad
Cha Houy Teuk is a sweet and refreshing salad that is made with jellyfish, cucumber, carrot, onion, and peanuts. The jellyfish is boiled and marinated in vinegar and sugar, giving it a tangy and sweet flavor. The dish is often served as an appetizer or as a side dish to a main course.
Lap Khmer: A Refreshing Raw Fish Salad
Lap Khmer is a raw fish salad that is dressed with lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, and other seasonings. The dish is typically made with a type of catfish called trey riel, which is thinly sliced and mixed with herbs, toasted rice powder, and other ingredients. Lap Khmer is a popular street food in Cambodia and is often served with sticky rice.
Num Banh Chok: A Tasty Fish Soup Noodle
Num Banh Chok is a fish soup noodle dish that is made with rice noodles, fish curry, and fresh vegetables. The fish curry is made with lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and other spices, giving it a rich and flavorful taste. Num Banh Chok is a popular breakfast food in Cambodia and is often served with bean sprouts and fresh herbs.
Trey Chean Neang: A Deep-Fried Mackerel Dish
Trey Chean Neang is a deep-fried mackerel dish that is seasoned with garlic, ginger, and other spices. The fish is marinated in the spices and then fried until it is crispy and golden brown. Trey Chean Neang is typically served with rice and a dipping sauce made with lime juice and salt.
Sngor Chrouk Trey: A Zesty Grilled Fish Dish
Sngor Chrouk Trey is a grilled fish dish that is seasoned with lemongrass, garlic, and other spices. The fish is grilled until it is crispy and charred on the outside and tender on the inside. Sngor Chrouk Trey is commonly served as a main course and is often accompanied by fresh vegetables and rice.
