Food In Kratie

Food History of Kratie, Cambodia

Kratie, a charming town located on the banks of the Mekong River, boasts a rich fusion of Khmer culinary traditions and the influences from neighboring countries like Laos and Vietnam. The region is known for its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with the Mekong providing an abundant supply of fish and the lush countryside yielding a variety of fruits and vegetables. Rice farming is integral to the province's subsistence and is the cornerstone of Kratie's culinary scene.

Despite the heavy influence of Buddhism that encourages vegetarianism, meat plays a significant role in local dishes, with an emphasis on fresh water fish and poultry. However, various vegetarian options have also evolved, incorporating an array of tropical fruits, vegetables, and aromatic herbs endemic to the Mekong's fertile plains.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Kratie, Cambodia

1. Amok Trey (Non-Veg) - A Cambodian culinary staple, Amok is a flavorful fish curry steamed in banana leaves, often prepared with a thick coconut milk base seasoned with kroeung (a traditional Khmer paste).
2. Banh Xeo (Non-Veg) - These crispy Vietnamese-style savory pancakes are made with rice flour, turmeric, and are filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts and herbs, but vegetarian options are also available.
3. Kuy Teav (Non-Veg) - A Chinese-influenced rice noodle soup typically served with pork or beef broth and topped with various meats or seafood, along with herbs and lime.
4. Lok Lak (Non-Veg) - A Cambodian beef stir-fry, which can be adapted for vegetarians by using tofu instead of beef, served with rice and a peppery lime sauce.
5. Green Mango Salad (Veg) - A refreshing salad made with shredded unripe mango, mixed with onions, peppers, and topped with nuts and basil.
6. Khmer Red Curry (Non-Veg) - Less spicy than its Thai counterpart, this curry usually contains chicken, beef or fish, eggplant, beans, and potatoes, but can be made vegetarian without the meat.
7. Nom Banh Chok (Non-Veg) - Known as Khmer noodles, this beloved breakfast dish includes rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy, yet vegetarian versions are also available.
8. Somlor Machu Ktis (Non-Veg) - This sweet and sour soup is brimming with flavors of tamarind, lemongrass, and palm sugar, typically cooked with fish but can be made vegetarian.
9. Bai Sach Chrouk (Non-Veg) - Grilled pork and broken rice is a simple yet popular street food in Kratie. Vegetarian alternatives often replace pork with grilled mushrooms or tofu.
10. Fried Vegetables (Veg) - A staple at most Cambodian meals, stir-fried vegetables can include anything from morning glory to long beans, bell peppers, and broccoli, flavored with oyster sauce or soy sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants in Kratie, Cambodia

1. Red Sun Falling

   Address: Street 10, Kratie
   Famous Food: Amok Trey (Non-Veg), Vegetarian Curry (Veg)

2. Tokae Restaurant

   Address: Riverside Road, Kratie
   Famous Food: Grilled Fish from the Mekong (Non-Veg), Vegetable Stir Fry (Veg)

3. Le Tonlé Restaurant

   Address: No. 162, Street 3, Kratie
   Famous Food: Kuy Teav (Non-Veg), Lok Lak Tofu (Veg)

4. Sorya Restaurant

   Address: In front of the Kratie Market
   Famous Food: Bai Sach Chrouk (Non-Veg), Green Mango Salad (Veg)

5. Rajabori Villas Restaurant

   Address: Koh Trong Island, Kratie
   Famous Food: Nom Banh Chok (Non-Veg), Fresh Spring Rolls (Veg)