Food in Cambodia may not be as well-known as that of Thailand and Vietnam, but it is equally delicious! Khmer food is simple, traditional, and satisfying, using local produce and typically combining contrasting flavours. As in much of Asia, rice is a staple in most meals. Eaten in many forms throughout the day, whether savoury or sweet, this versatile food staple is delicious.
Cambodia is an excellent destination for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. The larger cities, such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, have vegetarian-only restaurants that always have vegan options. You may be limited to rice dishes, fried vegetables, noodles, and coconut curries in other areas. Always ask for fish sauce to be added. A popular dish is fried vegetables and noodles with a fried egg. Cambodia offers various fresh fruits, which are also perfect to pick up as a snack!Â
The signature dish of Cambodia, this creamy curry can be found on menus throughout the country. Freshwater fish are soaked in coconut milk, eggs, fish sauce and palm sugar, and mixed with a spiced paste, turmeric and lemongrass. Traditionally the dish is served in a banana leaf bowl along with some rice.
Chicken and banana flower salad may seem odd, but this simple salad is popular on hot days in Cambodia. Banana blossom flowers are tossed with chicken pieces and fried with garlic, chilli, and lemongrass. Trust us, you’ll want to try it!
Crab is popular along the coast of Cambodia, especially in Kampot and Kep. Crabs are caught fresh daily and served in a variety of ways. In Kep one of the most popular ways to eat it is just with a little local pepper!
Lap Khmer takes thin slices of beef and marinade it in a variety of flavours such as lime, garlic, shallots, fish sauce and herbs. Topped with lots of chillies, the dish is up there on the spice level but popular all over the country!
A simple dish found throughout Cambodia, Khmer curry varies slightly by region. Made with fish, chicken, or beef, the dish includes potatoes, coconut milk, and lemongrass as key ingredients.
When travelling in Cambodia, you will see a lot of food, such as squid, served on skewers. Check out the varieties at any local market, but watch out for the spice!Â
Iced coffee is one of the most common drinks in Cambodia, mixed with condensed milk to provide a sweet and tasty drink. It can be found in cafes all over the country and also at local markets where it is likely to be cheaper. If you are not after a caffeine fix, tropical fruit juice is also widely available!
Beer is the most popular alcoholic drink in Cambodia, with each region serving different local brews. Prices vary from under a dollar to a few dollars depending on where you are and an evening drinking with new found friends is a popular activity amongst backpackers. Angkor Beer, named after the iconic temples, is the most consumed beer in the country.
Nothing beats the refreshing flavour of fresh coconut juice, especially on a hot and humid day! Fresh coconut juice is available for sale at many roadside stands and market stalls.Â
 Fermented rice wine packs a punch! With an alcohol content of 18 to 25%, you can find many different varieties on offer from small, even household distilleries. Fermented rice residues are then fed to the village pigs so nothing goes to waste!
A must-see in Vietnam Often listed as a must-see in Vietnam, Ha Long Bay (Vịnh Hạ Long) is stunning. The…
The perfect blend of bustle and chill New food and a lot of fun   Hanoi is a paradise…
Hiking in Torres Del Paine National Park, Chilean Patagonia Have you ever dreamed of hiking through the stunning landscapes of…
We are passionate adventure travelers who want to share the world and our travel experiences with everyone…
