Introduction: Cambodian Beverages and Drinks
Cambodian cuisine is known for its distinctive flavors, spices, and ingredients. The country’s cuisine reflects its rich cultural and historical heritage, with influences from neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam, as well as China and India. While Cambodian food is gaining popularity around the world, its beverages and drinks remain relatively unknown outside of the country. From traditional refreshments to contemporary cocktails, Cambodian cuisine offers a wide range of unique and flavorful beverages.
Traditional Refreshments in Cambodia
Traditional Cambodian refreshments are typically served during meals or as snacks throughout the day. One of the most popular drinks is called tuk-a-loc, which translates to “sour soup”. It is made by mixing water with tamarind, sugar, and sometimes fish sauce or chili pepper for added flavor. Another popular drink is called teuk tnot chung, which is a sweet and tangy drink made from sugar cane juice, lime, and a pinch of salt. Other traditional Cambodian drinks include iced tea, soy milk, and fresh coconut water.
Aromatic Herbal Teas and Infusions
Cambodian cuisine is well-known for its use of aromatic herbs and spices, which are also used to make herbal teas and infusions. One of the most popular herbal teas is called kroueng tea, which is made by steeping a blend of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, turmeric, and other spices. This tea is believed to have healing properties and is often served as a digestive aid after meals. Other popular herbal teas in Cambodia include ginger tea, pandan tea, and lotus tea.
Sweet and Savory Coconut-Based Drinks
Coconuts are a staple ingredient in Cambodian cuisine, and they are used to make a variety of sweet and savory drinks. One of the most popular coconut-based drinks is called num krok, which is a sweet and creamy beverage made from coconut cream, rice flour, and sugar. Another popular drink is called num ansom chek, which is a sweet and salty drink made from coconut water, salt, and sugar. Coconut milk is also used to make savory drinks like samlor korko, which is a soup made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and coconut milk.
Pungent and Spicy Rice Wine
Rice wine is a popular alcoholic beverage in Cambodia, and it is typically served during special occasions or gatherings. One of the most popular types of rice wine is called bai sach chrouk, which is made from fermented rice and pork. This drink has a pungent and spicy flavor and is often served with grilled pork and vegetables. Another popular rice wine is called sraa tram, which is made from fermented sticky rice and has a sweet and sour taste.
Tropical Fruit Juices and Smoothies
Cambodia is home to a wide variety of tropical fruits, and many of them are used to make refreshing juices and smoothies. Some of the most popular fruits used in Cambodian drinks include mango, pineapple, papaya, and dragonfruit. These fruits are blended together with ice and sometimes sweetened with sugar to make delicious and healthy beverages.
Exotic and Rare Herbal Tonics
Cambodia is also known for its use of exotic and rare herbs in traditional medicinal tonics. These tonics are believed to have healing properties and are often used to treat various ailments. One of the most popular tonics is called amok trey, which is made from fish, herbs, and spices. Another popular tonic is called samlor m’chou preng, which is made from chicken, herbs, and spices.
Contemporary Cambodian Cocktails and Mocktails
In recent years, Cambodian bartenders and mixologists have been experimenting with traditional Cambodian ingredients to create unique and flavorful cocktails and mocktails. Some of the most popular drinks include the Kampot Pepper Martini, which is made with Kampot pepper-infused vodka, and the Khmer Colada, which is a variation of the classic Pina Colada made with coconut water and Cambodian rum. Other creative drinks include the Sraa Khmer, which is made with rice wine, lime, and chili pepper, and the Tuk-a-Loc Margarita, which is a tart and tangy margarita made with tuk-a-loc juice.
