The Cambodian Samlor Kako Recipe is a hearty and satisfying dish featuring a mix of vegetables and tender chicken in a richly flavoured broth. The Cambodian Samlor Kako Recipe showcases a vibrant array of vegetables, including cabbage, Chinese cabbage, bok choy, sliced carrots, and green beans. These vegetables are cut into bite-sized pieces and cooked until they are tender but still hold some crispness, adding both texture and colour to the dish.
The broth of the Cambodian Samlor Kako Recipe is a deep, golden colour, thanks to the addition of Cambodian curry powder. This powder imparts a complex, spicy flavour to the broth, which is further enhanced by garlic and onion sautéed in vegetable oil. The combination of chicken broth, fish sauce, tamarind paste, and a touch of sugar creates a well-balanced flavour profile, with the tamarind adding a tangy note and the sugar balancing out the spices.
Chicken breast pieces are cooked until tender and are well-seasoned with salt and pepper, ensuring they absorb the flavours of the broth. The dish is finished with fresh cilantro, which adds a burst of freshness and complements the rich flavours of the Cambodian Samlor Kako Recipe.
Overall, the Cambodian Samlor Kako Recipe offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavours, with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a well-seasoned broth making it a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients For the Cambodian Samlor Kako Recipe
Chicken Breast
Cabbage
Chinese Cabbage
Bok Choy
Sliced Carrots
Green Beans
Onion
Garlic
Vegetable Oil
Cambodian Curry Powder
Chicken Broth
Fish Sauce
Tamarind Paste
Sugar
Salt
Pepper
Cilantro
Cooking Instructions For the Cambodian Samlor Kako Recipe
- In a big saucepan or Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, warm the vegetable oil.
- Stir-fry the chicken for approximately 5 minutes, or until it becomes browned.
- Cook the onion and garlic for two more minutes in the stir-fry.
- When the curry powder is aromatic, add it and continue to stir-fry for one more minute.
- Stir-fry the green beans, bok choy, cabbage, and carrots for another two or three minutes.
- Incorporate the chicken stock, fish sauce, tamarind paste, sugar, salt, and pepper. Blend thoroughly.
- After the mixture boils, lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are soft.
- Give it a taste and, if needed, tweak the seasoning.
- Hot over steamed rice, top with chopped cilantro, and serve.
10 Reasons Why to Eat Cambodian Food
1. Balanced Flavors – Cambodian cuisine is known for its balanced mix of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Unlike some other cuisines that might lean heavily on one flavor profile, Cambodian food expertly combines these elements in a single dish. This balance creates a satisfying and well-rounded taste experience, appealing to a broad range of palates.
2. Fresh Ingredients – Cambodian dishes emphasize the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime to seasonal vegetables, the freshness of ingredients plays a key role in enhancing the flavor. This focus on fresh produce not only adds to the taste but also makes the food healthier and more nutritious.
3. Healthy Options – Many Cambodian meals are light, with a focus on vegetables, fish, and rice, making them a great option for health-conscious eaters. Soups like Samlor Machu (a sweet and sour soup) are packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, making it both filling and nutritious. Grilled dishes also provide a lower-calorie alternative without compromising on taste.
4. Cultural Diversity – Cambodian food has been influenced by Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, and even French culinary traditions. This unique blend of cultures has resulted in a rich culinary landscape, offering dishes with diverse textures, flavors, and preparation methods. Whether you’re craving noodles, curries, or grilled meats, Cambodian cuisine has something to offer.
5. Fish Amok – This is one of Cambodia’s most famous dishes, a delicate fish curry steamed in banana leaves. Its rich, creamy coconut base is flavoured with fresh herbs and a special spice mix called kroeung. Fish Amok is a symbol of Cambodia’s culinary identity, and trying it gives you a real taste of the country’s heritage.
6. Khmer Barbecue – Cambodian barbecue is not just about the food, it’s an interactive dining experience. Grilled meats are served with a variety of dipping sauces, vegetables, and rice, allowing diners to customize each bite. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a social meal with friends and family while exploring different combinations of flavors.
7. Nom Banh Chok – This traditional breakfast dish, also known as Khmer noodles, is a light yet flavorful way to start the day. The dish features fresh rice noodles topped with a fragrant fish-based broth, herbs, and green vegetables. It’s a staple in Cambodian households, offering a refreshing and healthy breakfast option that’s perfect for a warm day.
8. Affordable – One of the best things about Cambodian food is that it’s incredibly affordable. Whether you’re dining at a street stall or a local restaurant, you can enjoy a full, delicious meal without spending much. This makes Cambodian cuisine accessible to both locals and travelers on a budget.
9. Street Food – Cambodia’s street food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from grilled meats to exotic snacks like fried insects. Street vendors provide a quick, affordable, and exciting way to sample authentic Cambodian flavors. It’s an adventurous way to explore local cuisine while immersing yourself in the culture.
10. Community Experience – Cambodian meals are often shared, with several dishes placed in the middle of the table for everyone to enjoy. This tradition fosters a sense of togetherness and conversation during mealtimes. It’s not just about the food; it’s about enjoying the company of others and creating lasting memories around the table.
10 Reasons Why I Love Cambodian Food
1. Bold Flavors – Cambodian food masterfully blends salty, sour, sweet, and bitter flavors in a single dish. This balance creates a dynamic eating experience that keeps your taste buds engaged. Each dish is full of surprises.
2. Fresh Herbs and Vegetables – Cambodian dishes make extensive use of fresh ingredients like cilantro, lemongrass, and basil. These herbs provide a refreshing and vibrant flavor that enhances the natural taste of the food. It’s a burst of freshness in every bite.
3. Variety of Textures – From the crunch of fresh vegetables to the chewiness of rice noodles, Cambodian cuisine offers a delightful variety of textures. This mix keeps each dish interesting and satisfying. You’re never bored with just one texture.
4. Healthy Cooking Techniques – Cambodian food often uses methods like steaming, grilling, and light stir-frying. These techniques help retain nutrients while keeping the dishes light and flavorful. You get great taste without feeling heavy.
5. Cultural Influence – Cambodian cuisine is a beautiful fusion of flavors influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese cooking. This mix of cultures brings depth to the food, making each dish feel like a journey through history.
6. Unique Ingredients – Cambodian dishes often feature special ingredients like prahok (fermented fish paste) and galangal. These bold and distinctive ingredients give Cambodian food a flavor profile that stands out. It’s truly unforgettable.
7. Variety in Dishes – Whether it’s soups, stir-fries, or grilled meats, Cambodian cuisine offers an incredible range of dishes. You can find something for every palate, from mild to spicy, and everything in between.
8. Street Food Scene – The street food in Cambodia is lively and offers a wide variety of quick, tasty bites. From skewers to noodles, the flavors of Cambodian street food are as exciting as they are accessible. It’s food on the go, done right.
9. Affordability – Cambodian food is simple yet full of flavor, often using inexpensive ingredients. This makes it easy and affordable to recreate at home without needing fancy or expensive products. Great food doesn’t have to break the bank.
10. Delicious Desserts – Cambodian desserts are light, sweet, and often use tropical fruits and coconut. From sticky rice to banana-based sweets, they offer a pleasant, refreshing way to end a meal. The perfect balance of sweet and satisfying.
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Best method for cooking Cambodian rice dishes at home?
The best method for cooking Cambodian rice dishes at home involves understanding the type of rice typically used and the traditional techniques that bring out its flavors. Cambodian cuisine commonly features fragrant, long-grain jasmine rice, which is prized for its soft texture and slightly sticky quality when cooked.
Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, which can make the rice too sticky. Use a 1:1.5 rice-to-water ratio to get the perfect texture. For example, for every cup of rice, add 1.5 cups of water. Bring the water and rice to a boil in a heavy-bottomed pot, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes.
To enhance the flavor, Cambodian home cooks sometimes add pandan leaves or a pinch of salt while cooking the rice. Another popular technique is using a rice cooker, which simplifies the process by automatically adjusting the heat and cooking time for perfect results every time.
For more traditional Cambodian rice dishes like Bai Sach Chrouk (pork with rice) or Amok Trey (steamed fish curry), the rice serves as the perfect base, soaking up all the savory sauces and seasonings. Simple and versatile, properly cooked rice is a staple for any Cambodian meal.
FAQs for the Cambodian Samlor Kako Recipe
Q: What ingredients are commonly used in the Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe?
A: The Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe typically includes a variety of vegetables like eggplant, green beans, and pumpkin, along with pork or fish, and flavored with fermented fish paste, lemongrass, and other seasonings for a hearty and flavorful soup.
Q: Is the Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: While the traditional Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe includes meat or fish, it can be adapted for vegetarians by omitting these ingredients and using more vegetables or tofu to maintain the soup’s texture and flavor.
Q: How spicy is the Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe?
A: The Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe can have a mild to moderate level of spice, depending on the amount of chili or hot peppers used. The spice level can easily be adjusted to suit individual preferences.
Q: Can I freeze the Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe for later use?
A: Yes, you can freeze the Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe. It stores well in an airtight container for up to a few months. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to freeze the broth and meat separately from the vegetables and add them together when reheating.
Q: What is the best way to serve the Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe?
A: The Cambodian Samlor Kako recipe is best served hot, often with a side of steamed rice. The dish’s rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a satisfying main course, especially when served with a fresh herb garnish like basil or cilantro.

Samlor Kako Small Fish and Vegetables
Equipment
- Large saucepan or wok
- cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring Spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 lbs small fish (such as tilapia), cleaned and scaled
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 cups water
- 2 potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp chopped basil
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the fish sauce, sugar, and water. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
- Add the potatoes, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and small fish. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the fish is cooked through.
- Serve hot, topped with the cilantro and basil.
1 comment
Every bite was packed with flavor. I’ll definitely be making this again!
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