Are you planning a trip to Cambodia and wondering where to find the best street food? Look no further! Cambodia is a hidden gem for food lovers, offering some of the most flavorful and affordable street food in Southeast Asia. From savory noodles to grilled delicacies, Cambodian street food is a feast for your taste buds and your wallet.
After spending months exploring the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, I’ve compiled a list of the top 5 must-try street foods in Cambodia. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you navigate the vibrant street food scene and discover the best dishes Cambodia has to offer. Plus, you’ll be amazed at how cheap and delicious these meals are—most cost less than $2!
Ready to dive into the world of Cambodian street food? Let’s get started!
Why Cambodian Street Food is a Must-Try
Cambodian street food is more than just a quick bite—it’s a cultural experience. Street vendors are the heart and soul of cities like Phnom Penh, serving up dishes that reflect Cambodia’s rich culinary heritage. From fragrant lemongrass to tangy fish sauce, every bite tells a story.
What makes Cambodian street food even better? It’s incredibly affordable. Most dishes cost between $0.50 and $3.00, making it perfect for budget travelers. Plus, the variety is endless. Whether you’re craving noodles, grilled meats, or sweet treats, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
Is Cambodian Street Food Safe to Eat?
One of the most common questions travelers ask is, “Is street food in Cambodia safe to eat?” The answer is yes—if you know what to look for. Stick to busy vendors with high turnover, as this ensures the food is fresh. Avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits, and always drink bottled water. You need to be smart and make your own judgements. If it’s heated right in front of you, it’s likely good to eat. If you didn’t see it cooked and heated make a call based on your judgement.
Whether you are in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap you can find it anywhere! This guide will specifically mention spots in Phnom Penh.
Top 5 Must-Try Street Foods in Cambodia
Cambodia often uses USD or their own currency which is riels, refer to this guide to learn more about Cambodian currency and what you should bring.
Check here for the most current conversion rate.
1. Lort Cha (Fried Rice Pin Noodles)
Lort Cha is a stir-fried noodle dish that’s a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Made with thick rice pin noodles, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce, it’s topped with a fried egg and served with bean sprouts and greens. The result? A perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Price: $1.50-$3 USD or 6,000-12,000 riels
Where to Try It: Russian Market (Tuol Tompoung Market), Phnom Penh
2. Sach Ko Ang (BBQ Beef Skewers)
If you’re a fan of grilled meats, you’ll love Sach Ko Ang. These BBQ beef skewers are marinated in lemongrass and grilled to perfection, giving them a sweet and smoky flavor. Served with pickled papaya and carrots, they’re the perfect combination of tangy and savory.
Price: $0.50-1.50 USD or 2,000-6,000 riels per skewer
Where to Try It: Russian Market (Tuol Tompoung Market), Phnom Penh
3. Noum Krouk (Rice Coconut Savory Cake)
Noum Krouk is a delightful snack that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Made with rice flour, coconut milk, and scallions, these bite-sized cakes are cooked in a clay pot and served with a creamy coconut-fish sauce. Add a dash of chili sauce for an extra kick!
Price: $0.12-0.50 USD or 500-2,000 riels per cake
Where to Try It: Dumex Market, Phnom Penh
4. Num Kachay (Garlic & Chive Rice Cake)
Num Kachay is a savory rice cake made with garlic, chives, and rice flour. Fried to a golden crisp, it’s served with a sweet fish sauce that’s reminiscent of sweet and sour sauce. This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors.
Price: $0.25-0.50 USD or 1,000-2,000 riels per cake
Where to Try It: Orussey Market, Phnom Penh
5. Khmer Style BBQ Squid
Cambodian-style BBQ squid is a seafood lover’s dream. The squid is grilled over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavor, and served with a fragrant herb sauce made from garlic, green onions, and lime. Don’t forget to dip it in the accompanying chili and lime pepper sauces for an extra burst of flavor!
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Price: $10.95 USD+ or 45,000+ riels
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Where to Try It: Central Market (Phsar Thmei), Phnom Penh
Thoughts on Street Food in Cambodia
Cambodia is home to some of the best street food in Southeast Asia. From the bustling markets of Phnom Penh to the quiet streets of Siem Reap, you’ll find an incredible variety of dishes that are both delicious and affordable.
After spending months exploring Cambodia’s street food scene, I can confidently say that these five dishes are a must-try for any visitor. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also offer a glimpse into the country’s rich culinary heritage. There are so many different options it was so hard to choose just 5 best street food in Cambodia.
If you don’t eat squid, please try Fish Amok instead!
What Food Is Cambodia Known For?
Cambodian cuisine is a hidden treasure in Southeast Asia, offering a unique blend of flavors, fresh ingredients, and cultural influences. While street food is a highlight, Cambodia is also known for its traditional dishes that reflect the country’s agricultural abundance and rich history. Here are some signature dishes you need to try:
1. Amok: Cambodia’s National Dish
Amok is a creamy, fragrant curry made with fish, chicken, or beef, cooked in coconut milk and kroeung (a traditional Cambodian spice paste). Steamed in banana leaves, this dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
Why It’s Special: Often considered Cambodia’s national dish, Amok is a must-try for anyone visiting the country.
2. Kuy Teav (Beef Noodle Soup in Tomato Sauce)
Kuy Teav Kau Go is a beloved Cambodian noodle soup that offers a delightful culinary experience. This aromatic dish features tender beef slices immersed in a savory tomato-infused broth, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The soup is enriched with fragrant spices such as star anise, lemongrass, and garlic, which impart both sweet and savory notes. Served over delicate rice noodles and garnished with fresh herbs, Kuy Teav provides a hearty and flavorful meal that captures the essence of Cambodian cuisine.
3. Bai Sach Chrouk (Grilled Pork and Rice)
A popular breakfast dish, Bai Sach Chrouk features thinly sliced grilled pork marinated in coconut milk and garlic. It’s served over rice with pickled vegetables and a side of clear broth.
Why It’s a Favorite: It’s simple, flavorful, and a great way to start your day.
If you do not eat pork, not to worry the grilled chicken and rice is just as delicious!
4. Lok Lak (Stir-Fried Beef)
Lok Lak is a Cambodian take on stir-fried beef, marinated in a tangy sauce made from lime, black pepper, and soy sauce. It’s typically served with rice, fresh vegetables, and a dipping sauce.
Why It Stands Out: The lime and black pepper dipping sauce is a game-changer!
Mel’s mom makes this often and I never ever get tired of it.
5. Num Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
Num Banh Chok is a traditional breakfast dish made with rice noodles, fish-based green curry, and fresh herbs. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
Fun Fact: This dish is often sold by street vendors carrying baskets on their heads.
6. Kuy Teav (Noodle Soup)
Kuy Teav is a comforting noodle soup made with pork or beef broth, rice noodles, and toppings like herbs, bean sprouts, and fried garlic. It’s a popular breakfast option and a great way to warm up in the morning.
Why It’s Loved: It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly affordable.
7. Prahok (Fermented Fish Paste)
Prahok is a pungent fermented fish paste used as a condiment or ingredient in many Cambodian dishes. While it’s an acquired taste, it adds a unique umami flavor to meals.
Pro Tip: Try it in small amounts if you’re new to fermented foods. It doesn’t smell the best according to the locals but I actually don’t mind it!
8. Trey Aing (Grilled Fish)
Trey Aing is a simple yet delicious dish of grilled fish marinated with spices and served with a tangy dipping sauce made from lime, garlic, and chili.
Why It’s a Must-Try: The smoky flavor of the grilled fish pairs perfectly with the zesty sauce.
Why Cambodian Cuisine Stands Out
Cambodian food is a reflection of the country’s history, culture, and natural resources. With its emphasis on fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and bold flavors, it’s no wonder that Cambodian cuisine is gaining recognition worldwide.
Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Phnom Penh or the serene countryside, you’ll find that every dish tells a story. From the tangy flavors of Lok Lak to the creamy richness of Amok, Cambodian food is a journey for your taste buds.
FAQs: Cambodian Food
Is Cambodian Food Similar To Thai?
Cambodian food shares some similarities with Thai food, however, there are also distinct differences between the two cuisines. Here is a comparison:
1. Flavors: Both cuisines use a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. However, the specific combinations and intensity of ingredients used can vary. Thai food is often spicier and tends to present bolder flavors. In comparison, Cambodian cuisine may lean towards more subtle spiciness and delicate flavor profiles.
2. Ingredients: Both cuisines use fresh herbs, spices, and local ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, coconut milk, and chili peppers. However, Cambodian dishes generally use fewer spices overall compared to Thai cuisine. This allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through and provide balance.
3. Curries: Both Cambodian and Thai cuisines make curries, but there are differences in the preparation and flavor profiles. Thai curries are often thicker and creamier, made with a base of coconut milk and a variety of curry pastes. Cambodian curries may be lighter and more soupy, often including a broader range of herbs and aromatics.
4. Noodle Dishes: Noodle dishes are popular in both cuisines, but there are differences in the types of noodles used and the ingredients. For example, Thai cuisine is known for dishes like Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles, which use rice noodles. Cambodian dishes like Num Banh Chok, are made with fermented rice noodles, and Kuy Teav, with fresh rice noodles.
5. Use of Fish Paste: Both cuisines love to use fish sauce as a common seasoning! However, Cambodian cuisine often incorporates prahok, a pungent fermented fish paste, more prominently than Thai cuisine. Prahok adds a unique depth of salty and fish flavor to many Cambodian dishes.
While there are similarities between Cambodian and Thai cuisines, each has its distinct characteristics and flavor profiles. South East Asian cooking in general is influenced by many factors such as geography, history, and cultural traditions.
What Is Kha Cambodian Food?
“Kha” in Cambodian cooking typically refers to rice porridge or rice congee. It is a soothing and nourishing dish made by boiling rice in a large amount of water until it breaks down into a smooth, porridge-like consistency. Kha is either served plain or flavored with various ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
My personal preference is with some protein and soy sauce for additional flavor! In its simplest form, kha is often served as a breakfast dish or often eaten by those who are sick. However, it can also be elevated into a more refined dish by adding toppings. Common toppings for kha include shredded chicken or pork, minced meatballs, vegetables, scallions, and fried garlic. This Cambodian dish is finished off with a drizzle of soy sauce or fish sauce for added flavor.
Kha is enjoyed by many for its taste but is also valued for its ability to be easily digestible and comforting. This makes it a popular choice for people of all ages and occasions.
What Is A Traditional Cambodian Breakfast?
A traditional Cambodian breakfast often includes many dishes that reflect the country’s culinary heritage and cultural influences. Some of the common breakfast items in Cambodia, some of which are Cambodian street food include:
1. Bai Sach Chrouk: Grilled pork served on top of rice with pickled vegetables and a side bowl of broth. This is one of the most consumed breakfast dishes in Cambodia, known for its savory flavors and combination of textures.
2. Num Banh Chok: Rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry sauce and vegetables. This dish is commonly served with a side of fresh herbs and vegetables for added freshness and texture.
3. Kuy Teav: A noodle soup made with either pork or beef broth, and thin rice noodles. It’s often topped with thinly sliced meat, bean sprouts, green onions, and fried garlic. Kuy Teav is a comforting and filling breakfast option, perfect for starting the day.
4. Bai Cha: A dish of fried rice served with various accompaniments such as fried eggs, Chinese sausage, pickled vegetables, and sliced cucumbers. Bai Cha is a flavorful breakfast choice that provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables.
5. Num Krok: One of my favorite Cambodian street foods noted above. Coconut rice pancakes are cooked in a special pan with round indentations. Once cooked, resulting in small, bite-sized pancakes with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Num Krok is often served with a sweet dipping sauce made from palm sugar, coconut milk, and sometimes chilis!
These are just a few examples of traditional Cambodian breakfast dishes. However, there are many other specialties around Cambodia to explore. Cambodian breakfasts tend to be hearty, flavorful, light, and balanced, providing a satisfying start to the day.
What Is Cambodia Street Food Price?
The prices of Cambodian street food can vary depending on the dish, location, and vendor. Generally, street food in Cambodia is known for being affordable, making it accessible to both locals and travelers. Here are some approximate price ranges for popular Cambodian street food items:
- Banh Chao (Cambodian Crepe): $1-2 USD
- Nom Krok (Coconut Rice Pancakes): $0.50-1 USD
- Num Pang (Cambodian Sandwich): $1-2 USD
- Skewered Grilled Meat (e.g., Beef, Chicken): $0.50-1 USD per skewer
- Fried Noodles or Rice Dishes: $1-2 USD
- Fruit Shakes or Smoothies: $1-2 USD
- Fried Insects (e.g., Crickets, Grasshoppers): $0.50-1 USD per serving
- Fresh Fruit: Prices vary depending on the type of fruit and season, but generally $0.50-1 USD per serving.
It’s important to note that these prices are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as location (urban vs. rural areas, tourist hotspots vs. local markets), portion size, and ingredients used. Overall, Cambodian street food offers excellent value for money and is a great way to experience the local culinary scene while on a budget.
What Is Cambodian Vegetarian Food?
Yes, Cambodian vegetarian food does exist, although it may not be as prevalent as dishes that include meat or fish. Cambodian cuisine traditionally incorporates a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices, making it possible to enjoy delicious vegetarian meals.
Here are some examples of Cambodian vegetarian dishes:
1. Lort Cha: A stir-fried noodle dish made with wide rice noodles, mixed vegetables, tofu, and sometimes egg, seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and other spices.
2. Bai Chha: Stir-fried mixed vegetables seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and sometimes a touch of sugar, served with rice.
3. Num Banh Chok Chrouk: Rice noodles served with a flavorful green curry sauce made from lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and other herbs, typically accompanied by fresh vegetables.
4. Ang Dtray-Meuk Chha Khnheay: Stir-fried baby corn with mixed vegetables and tofu, seasoned with soy sauce and garlic.
5. Samlor Kork: A Cambodian vegetable soup made with a variety of seasonal vegetables, flavored with herbs and spices, and sometimes enriched with coconut milk.
6. Nom Banh Chok: Rice noodles served with a tangy sauce made from coconut milk, turmeric, and lemongrass, topped with fresh herbs and vegetables.
7. Tofu Amok: A vegetarian version of the traditional Cambodian dish, Amok, made with tofu instead of fish or meat, cooked in a rich coconut curry sauce and steamed in banana leaves.
These are just a few examples, but there are many more vegetarian options available in Cambodian cuisine. Additionally, many Cambodian restaurants and street food vendors are willing to accommodate dietary preferences, so it’s often possible to request vegetarian versions of dishes that would typically contain meat or fish.
What Time Do Street Food Vendors Open?
Street food vendors in Cambodia typically start setting up their stalls in the late afternoon or early evening, around 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This is when you’ll find many vendors preparing their ingredients, setting up their cooking stations, and getting ready for the evening rush.
However, the exact opening times can vary depending on the location and the specific vendor. In some busy areas or popular street food markets, vendors may start operating earlier, while in quieter neighborhoods, they might open a bit later.
Once set up, street food stalls generally remain open until late at night, often past midnight or even into the early hours of the morning, catering to locals and tourists alike who are looking for a quick and tasty meal.
In addition to the evening hours, some street food vendors in Cambodia also operate during the morning, particularly around markets and busy street corners. Morning street food stalls often cater to early risers looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast before starting their day.
Many local markets in Cambodia, such as Psar Chas (Old Market) in Siem Reap or Psar Thmey (Central Market) in Phnom Penh, are bustling hubs of activity throughout the day, including in the morning. Around these markets, you can often find street food vendors serving up a variety of breakfast options, including noodle soups, rice dishes, and freshly made snacks.
The morning street food scene typically starts to pick up around sunrise, as vendors begin to set up their stalls and prepare for the day ahead. Depending on the location and the market’s operating hours, you may find street food stalls open as early as 6:00 AM or even earlier in some cases.
Exploring the streets around local markets in the morning can provide a unique opportunity to sample authentic Cambodian breakfast and experience the lively atmosphere of the country’s street food culture. From savory noodle soups to sweet treats like coconut pancakes, there’s no shortage of delicious options to start your day off right.
Is Street Food In Cambodia Safe? Guide
Like street food in many other countries, Cambodian street food can be safe if certain precautions are taken. While street food vendors often offer delicious and authentic culinary experiences, there are some risks associated with eating street food anywhere in the world, including potential foodborne illnesses.
Here are some tips to help ensure the safety of Cambodian street food:
1. Choose Clean and Busy Stalls: Look for vendors who appear to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in their food preparation area. Busy stalls with a high turnover of customers often indicate fresher food.
2. Watch the Food Handling: Pay attention to how the food is handled and cooked. Make sure that ingredients are kept covered and protected from dust and flies. Food should be cooked thoroughly and served hot.
3. Go for Freshly Cooked Food: Opt for dishes that are cooked to order and served piping hot. Avoid pre-cooked food that has been sitting out at room temperature for an extended period.
4. Avoid Raw or Undercooked Food: Minimize your risk of foodborne illness by avoiding raw or undercooked meat, seafood, and eggs.
5. Peel Your Fruits and Vegetables: If you’re buying fresh fruits or vegetables from street vendors, consider peeling them yourself to reduce the risk of contamination.
6. Use Clean Utensils and Plates: Ensure that utensils and plates are clean before eating. If possible, bring your own utensils or use disposable ones provided by the vendor.
7. Drink Bottled Water: Stick to bottled or boiled water to avoid the risk of waterborne illnesses. Avoid ice cubes unless you’re certain they were made from purified water.
8. Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t look or smell right, it’s best to err on the side of caution and choose another option.
By following these guidelines and using common sense, you can enjoy the unique flavors of Cambodian street food while reducing the risk of foodborne illness. Remember that while street food can be safe, there is always some level of risk associated with eating food prepared in open-air environments.
