Cambodian Street Food: Must-Try Dishes and What to Avoid

Angkor Wat may be Cambodia’s claim to global fame, but did you know Cambodia also boasts a street food scene brimming with unique flavors? Not only are these tasty treats incredibly affordable, but they also come in a dazzling variety. From savory soups to sugary-sweet desserts, Cambodian street food offers something to satisfy every craving and palate.

In the following guide, we’ll walk you through the best Cambodian street food and share some clever tips to make the most of your Cambodia trip. Pick out something that catches your eye, grab a bite, and treat yourself to the rich flavors of Cambodia today!

Is It Safe to Try the Cambodian Street Food during a Trip?

Cambodian street food vendors are often highly skilled at their craft and serve fresh, delicious food. However, most travelers may wonder if it is safe to enjoy street food in Cambodia during a trip. The answer is a resounding yes, as long as you take these picking tips.

One is choosing stalls that are busy with customers and appear clean and well-kept. These are often the best indicators of quality and safety. Another is to make sure the food is thoroughly cooked and served hot, avoid eating anything that’s been sitting out for too long.

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Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Coconut Pancakes (Nom Krok)

These bite-sized Coconut Pancakes are a popular Cambodian street food snack. These golden-brown pancakes are made from mixed batter, with rice flour, shredded coconut, sugar, and coconut milk in it. Then, pour the batter into a distinct pan with round indentions to provide a crisp outer coating with a fluffy, soft inside.

If you’re wandering through Street 240, spotting Nom Krok is a breeze. Usually sold in sets of five or ten, these tasty pancakes are delightfully affordable, costing just 1 or 2 dollars per serving. It is a good idea to grab Nom Krok as a tasty and quick snack on the go, as you wander through city streets or browse the local market of Cambodia.

Adding toppings on the Coconut Pancakes(Nom Krok).

Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Cambodian Style Sandwich (Num Pang)

Think of Num Pang as Cambodia's interpretation of the classic baguette sandwich but with a flavorful twist. Made with a baguette that is freshly baked, piled high with various mouthwatering fillings: grilled meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Put a smear of chili sauce or creamy mayonnaise will round things out.

The rich fillings of Num Pang make it impossible to resist, and the best part? It only cost 1 to 2 dollars! From busy Pho Langka Market to street sellers close to well-known landmarks like the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, you can get it easily.

Cambodian style sandwich(Num Pang).

Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Bamboo Sticky Rice (Kranlan)

Cambodian Bamboo Sticky Rice, also known as "Kralan" in the Khmer language, is a popular traditional dish in Cambodia. It’s made by mixing sticky rice with coconut milk, grated coconut, sugar, and a pinch of salt, and then stuffing the mixture into a length of the bamboo stalk. The bamboo is then roasted over an open flame until the rice is cooked and has a slightly smoky flavor.

Kralan is often found at roadside stalls and bus stops, with each tube priced at just around 1 dollar. As you explore the breathtaking Angkor Wat, you’ll likely spot many women on bicycles selling freshly made Kralan nearby. When hunger and fatigue strike during your journey, treat yourself to a sweet Kralan and recharge your energy!

Cambodian Bamboo sticky rice

Avoid Cambodian Street Food: Snails, Surprising Street Food

Snails are a popular street food in Cambodia, though they’re not everyone’s cup of tea. The snails are boiled or steamed and then served with a spicy dipping sauce made with chili, garlic, and lime juice. They are often sold by street vendors who set up makeshift stalls along busy roads or at night markets.

Adventurous tourists frequently praise their distinct texture and flavor, making them a must-try for the daring and curious. If you're willing to move outside of your culinary comfort zone, try them - you might be pleasantly surprised! However, if tasting odd meals isn't your thing, skip this one and enjoy Cambodia's many other delicious offers.

Cambodia Snails.

Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Cambodian Chive Cakes (Nom Ka Chai)

Nom Ka Chai or Num Kachay are delicious Cambodian chive cakes that are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. They are made by mixing a batter of rice flour, tapioca starch, water, and seasoning, and then folding in chopped chives and other ingredients such as dried shrimp or ground pork.

As the sun sets, you’ll find this delightful snack at street stalls near Battambang’s Central Market or around local schools. With a price of just about 1 dollar, it’s an affordable and tasty option. This snack will add a touch of joy to your Cambodia travel experience, perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Cambodian chive cakes

Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Coconut Ice Cream - My Favorite

The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit Cambodia. However, the daytime temperatures can soar! When the heat starts to get to you, there's nothing quite like indulging in a refreshing scoop of coconut ice cream. Rich, and creamy, the combination of flavour is fantastic, that's why I love it!

Coconut ice cream is often served in a cone or cup with a variety of toppings such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or sweetened condensed milk. With 1 or 2 dollars, you can get one from many local ice cream shops and markets, especially near tourist sites.

Coconut ice cream

Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Mango Sticky Rice - My Favorite

Mango sticky rice is a classic Cambodian delicacy that is often served in the summer when mangoes are at their best. This delightful treat combines perfectly ripe, juicy mangoes with soft, sticky rice, all topped with a generous drizzle of creamy coconut milk. It made a heavenly balance of flavors and textures.

You’ll often find it sold at street stalls near fruit markets or prosperous dining areas in the late afternoon or evening, priced affordably at just 2 to 3 dollars. I have a soft spot for this simple yet enchanting dish - it truly showcases the natural sweetness of mangoes in the most delicious way.

Mango and sticky rice

Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Soft and Tender Noodles (Nom Banh Chokl)

Nom banh chok is arguably Cambodia’s most cherished dish. This comforting dish features soft rice noodles served with a fragrant fish-based broth and topped with fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables. In Cambodia, nearly every household treats it as breakfast, so it was translated as “Khmer noodles” to foreigners.

In the early morning, you’ll find countless street stalls and local eateries near markets offering steaming bowls of nom banh chok. At just 1.50 to 3 dollars a bowl, it's an affordable, satisfying way to fuel your day with a taste of Cambodian tradition.

Cambodia Khmer noodles Banh Chokl

Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Cambodian Fried Doughnuts - Try Some

Num Kroch, or Cambodian fried donuts, are a popular street delicacy. Made from a mixture dough of rice flour, wheat flour, and sugar, is deep-fried till golden. Once fried, these donuts are generously coated in a luscious syrup made from palm sugar and water, giving them a rich, caramelized flavor that’s utterly addictive.

While undeniably delicious, they can be a bit greasy, so pairing them with a cup of tea or coffee is the perfect balance. You’ll find these delightful treats sold in the mornings by street vendors near schools or bustling neighborhoods, costing 0.50 to 1 dollar each. Just don’t overdo it, save some room for your next meal!

Cambodian Fried Doughnuts.

Must-Try Cambodian Street Food: Cambodian Iced Coffee - My Favorite

Cambodian iced coffee, also known as Cafe Bontéay in Khmer, is a popular beverage in Cambodia that is enjoyed both hot and cold. It is made by brewing strong, dark coffee and then serving it over ice with a generous splash of sweetened condensed milk.

It’s my go-to pick-me-up, delicious, refreshing, and irresistible. On a scorching afternoon, when you need a quick energy boost during your travels, it instantly melts away your fatigue. You can find it from roadside coffee carts to street food stalls. A cup of this heavenly treat usually costs just around 1.5 dollars. It’s the perfect way to recharge and beat the heat!

Ice coffee and breads

More of Our Local Advice for Cambodian Street Food

Since Cambodian food is known for its strong flavors, make sure to inform the vendor of your preferences while placing your order if you have a sensitivity to spice or unusual seasonings. It's the best way to guarantee that your meal will be both authentic and yummy!

The price of street food in Cambodia is affordable. The majority of street food dishes range in price from 1 to 3 dollars. Having some Cambodian Riel on hand is a smart idea because a lot of street food vendors in Cambodia prefer to be paid in cash.

If you're looking for a Cambodian street food menu, I highly recommend you head to Street 240 or Central Market in Phnom Penh, and Pub Street in Siem Reap. The street food scene in these places is very varied and lively. I'm sure you'll have an answer when you get there.

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Conclusion

Cambodian street food is a cultural experience as much as a delicious meal. If Cambodian street cuisine has captured your attention, come to explore Cambodia and start an incredible culinary journey. 

You will experience the most authentic street food while touring Cambodia's famous sites under the guidance of our local travel experts. It's a great way to experience the rich history, lively culture, and warm hospitality.