One of the best ways to experience the unique flavors of Cambodia is by indulging street food scene. From savory noodle dishes to sweet desserts, Cambodian street food offers a variety of flavors that are sure to satisfy any palate. In this article, we’ll explore the must-try street foods in Cambodia and the bustling street food markets. So, if you’re planning a trip to Cambodia or you’re living in Cambodia, read on to discover the delicious world of Cambodian street food!
An Introduction to Cambodian Street Food
Cambodia street food is a vibrant part of the culture that should not be missed. When in Cambodia, dive into the street food scene – your taste buds will thank you! Street food in Cambodia is fresh, made to order, and bursting with exotic flavors. It is also very affordable, with most dishes costing between $1 to $3.
Grilled meat and seafood
Walk down any street in Cambodia, and you’re bound to spot vendors grilling up meat and seafood. Some popular grilled items include beef, chicken, squid, and shrimp. The meat and seafood are usually marinated in a mixture of garlic, lemongrass, fish sauce, sugar, and chili before being grilled to perfection. Grilled Cambodian sausages, called naem, are also popular. Made of pork and rice, they have an irresistible savory and spicy flavor.
Noodles and rice dishes
Cambodian cuisine is also famous for its noodles and rice dishes. Nom banh chok, rice noodle soup, and Kuy teav, a pork and shrimp noodle soup, are delicious and filling. Amok, a rich coconut curry dish, is usually served over rice. And of course, every meal in Cambodia is accompanied by a side of rice. Jasmine rice is the most common, with individual grains that are soft and slightly sticky.
Fruit shakes and desserts
To quench your thirst, opt for a Cambodian fruit shake. Vendors blend fresh tropical fruits like mango, banana, passionfruit or durian into creamy shakes. And for dessert, try banh flan (caramel custard) or num krok (coconut pancakes). Cambodia also has amazing mangos and coconuts, which vendors will cut to order.
The variety and flavors of Cambodian street food are endless. Don’t be afraid to try new and unfamiliar dishes – that’s part of the adventure! Street food is also a great way to experience the local culture. Pull up a plastic stool, chat with the vendors and fellow customers, and enjoy your meal. The memories and flavors will stay with you long after you leave Cambodia.
Top 5 Must-Try Cambodian Street Food Dishes
Banh cheo (Cambodian Crepe)
Banh Chev is a savory crepe stuffed with pork, shrimp, mung beans, and bean sprouts. It is a bright yellow color because it is made of flour of rice, coconut milk, and turmeric. It’s usually served with lettuce leaves, fresh herbs, and a side of nuoc cham for dipping.
Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
These thick rice noodles are served in a fish-based curry broth, topped with green veggies, meat or seafood, and fresh herbs. The broth is usually quite spicy, so let the vendor know if you want it mild. People often eat nom banh chok for dinner, but you can get it any time of the day.
Kuy Teav (Pork Noodles)
Kuy teav features rice noodles in a broth made from pork bones and aromatics like garlic, shallots and lemongrass. The bowl is topped with sliced pork, fried garlic, scallions and cilantro. Lime, chili and fish sauce are also provided to adjust the flavors. It’s a hearty, comforting dish, perfect for any meal.
Bai Sach Chrouk (Pork and Rice)
Marinated pork is grilled to perfection and served with rice, fresh veggies, fried egg, and a chili-garlic sauce. The grilled meat’s smokey flavor goes well with the chili sauce. Bai sach chrouk is considered Cambodia’s national dish, so it’s a must-try.
Khmer Red Curry
Red curry paste, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers and eggplant are simmered with your choice of meat or seafood. The curry is usually quite spicy, so request “teuk kreung” for a milder version. Khmer red curry is always served with a side of rice to temper the heat.
Where to Find the Best Street Food in Cambodia
Cambodia is a street food paradise, with tasty treats around every corner. As you explore the cities and towns, keep an eye out for these popular spots to sample authentic Khmer cuisine.
Psar Chas Market, Siem Reap
No trip to Cambodia is complete without visiting Siem Reap’s Psar Chas market. Hundreds of food stands sell everything from soups and curries to grilled meats, fresh spring rolls, and tropical fruit shakes. The market is open every day from 6 am to 5 pm. Grab a bowl of kuy teav, a spicy Cambodian noodle soup, or opt for a plate of loc lac, stir-fried beef cubes with chili and lime.
Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
For the best street food in Phnom Penh, head to the riverfront area along Sisowath Quay. Here you’ll find vendors grilling chicken, pork, and seafood on skewers, as well as stalls selling fresh coconuts, fried bananas, and sticky rice in banana leaves. Try angk kimchi, grilled squid, or ka tieu, a spicy soup with rice noodles and fish. Most stalls are open from late afternoon into the evening.
Psar Kandal, Battambang
Battambang’s Psar Kandal market is a popular spot for street eats. In the mornings, you’ll find locals enjoying num krok, a rice noodle soup with pork and shrimp, and kuy teav. In the afternoons, look for grilled chicken, banh chev, fried rice noodles with meat and vegetables, and fresh spring rolls. Like most Cambodian markets, Psar Kandal is open daily from early morning until evening.
Street food in Cambodia is safe, delicious, and gives you an authentic taste of Khmer culture. Don’t be afraid to try new foods from different stalls—your taste buds will thank you! With a little exploring, you’ll soon discover your own favorites.
Street Food Etiquette & Safety Tips for Tourists
When visiting Cambodia, one of the highlights is experiencing the range of delicious street food options. However, as a tourist in a foreign country, it’s important to exercise caution. Follow these tips to safely enjoy Cambodia’s street food scene.
Choose busy stalls with high turnover
The most popular street food stalls will have a steady stream of locals stopping by. This high customer turnover means the ingredients are fresh, and the food is less likely to have been sitting out for a long time. If a stall has few customers, the food may have been prepared a while ago, and bacteria growth increases the risk of foodborne illness.
Check that food is thoroughly cooked
Make sure any meat, fish, or eggs in your dish have been cooked all the way through. Undercooked food is a common source of infections and parasites. Meat skewers, fish cakes and eggs are popular street foods, so check that there are no raw parts before eating. If anything looks undercooked, it’s best to pass.
Avoid unpeeled fruit and salads
Fruit, vegetables and salads that have been washed in unclean water can transmit infections. Stick to foods that have been peeled or cooked all the way through. Bananas, mangos and other fruit with thick peels are fine since you discard the peel.
Carry hand wipes and bottled water
Washing hands properly and staying hydrated are two of the best ways to avoid getting sick. Carry bottled water and hand wipes with you so you can wash up before digging into your street food.
By following these tips and using common sense, you can feel confident sampling Cambodia’s delicious street food fare. The key is moderation – enjoy a variety of options, but don’t overindulge in any one thing.
Common Questions About Cambodia Street Food
Many visitors to Cambodia have questions about enjoying the local street food. To help you feel better, here are some of the most common questions and their answers.
Is street food safe to eat?
Street food in Cambodia can be safe if you take some basic precautions. Choose busy stalls with high turnover, as the food is fresher. Make sure any meat, fish, or eggs are thoroughly cooked. Fruit that you peel yourself is fine, as are fried foods and steaming hot soups. If your gut isn’t used to the local bacteria, start slowly. Most importantly, trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, don’t eat it.
What are some must-try Cambodian street foods?
There are so many delicious options, but a few must-tries are:
- Nom banh chok: Rice noodles in a fish-based curry broth, topped with herbs, lime and chili. Hearty and flavorful.
- Bai sach chrouk: Grilled pork skewers, often served with a chili sauce for dipping.
- Num kroch: Crispy rice crackers served with a spicy dipping sauce. Perfect for snacking.
- Kuy teav: A pork and rice noodle soup, flavored with garlic, scallions and cilantro.
How much should I expect to pay?
Most street food dishes cost between $1 to $3. You can easily get a full meal for under $5. While prices are dirt cheap, the flavors are rich. Street food is meant to be enjoyed by all, so don’t be surprised if you’re dining next to construction workers or university students. Everyone loves the delicious, affordable fare.
What are some street food etiquette tips?
Some tips for enjoying street food like a pro:
• Find a stall with some customers already—it means the food is fresh and popular. • Don’t be afraid to point to what you want if there’s a language barrier. • Pay as you order. Have small bills on hand since most vendors won’t have change for $10 or $20.
• Stand or sit on the small plastic stools to eat, if provided. It’s all part of the experience! • Use the lime wedges, chili sauces, and fresh herbs offered to add more flavor.
• Slurping noodles is fine, but it is even recommended! Make some noise to show you’re enjoying your meal.
• Don’t forget to smile, say “aw-koon” (thank you) and give a friendly wave as you leave!
Cambodian street food is meant to be an adventure. Go in with an open mind, follow some basic safety tips, and enjoy discovering the vibrant flavors of the local
You might also want to read:
The Best Cambodian Food to Try (And What to Avoid): guide for visitor
Khmer People: Everything You Need to Know about them