5 DISHES YOU SHOULD TRY (AND WHERE TO TRY THEM)

1 Wok-fried crab with pepper

Kep is famous for its succulent crab and Kampot is renowned for its aromatic pepper. Put the two together at the Crab Market in Kep and you have one of Cambodia’s most delectable dishes. Kampot pepper has a UNESCO Geographical Indication like Champagne in France and is prized for its unique flavour. Try the fresh green peppercorns or the ground black pepper – both complement the crab to perfection. Kep’s Sailing Club is a popular sunset spot or go local with a visit to Kimly Restaurant in the Crab Market.

2 Naom ben chok noodles

These thin, hand-made rice noodles are like vermicelli and are served with a fragrant fish broth or a deep red curry with chicken and sweet potatoes. The garnish is a work of art and comes with everything from banana blossom to lotus root and includes a selection of edible flowers such as the purple water hyacinth. Try this dish in the village of Preah Dak, about 16km from Siem Reap, on the road to the temple of Banteay Srei.

3 Fish amok

Arguably the stand-out candidate for a national dish of Cambodia, fish amok is an aromatic mild curry steamed in banana leaf. The subtle blend of flavours comes from the kreung (paste) combination of herbs and spices that is key to Khmer cuisine and includes lemongrass, garlic, shallots, turmeric, galangal, lime leaves and a hint of chilli. Malis Restaurant in Phnom Penh, owned by celebrity chef Luu Meng (who’s cooked with everyone from Gordon Ramsay to Anthony Bourdain), serves a beautifully presented trio of amok.

4 Bobor porridge

This rice-based porridge is the closest thing to a must-have breakfast in Cambodia, but can be a healthy meal at any time. Plain bobor is flavoured with dried fish and pickles; more inviting is fish or chicken bobor with additions such as vegetables, dried garlic or pickled ginger. Find it in local markets for less than a pound a bowl.

5 Pomelo salad with freshwater shrimp

Kratie is a somnolent town on the Mekong that draws visitors to spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Opposite the town lies the island of Koh Trong, a rural idyll known for its pomelo orchards. Visit a homestay or restaurant to sample fresh pomelo salad with Mekong shrimp, a popular delicacy found all over Cambodia and the perfect complement to a bubbling curry or soup.

1

2

4

5

3