Our First Order
I remember my first morning in Phnom Penh, the aroma of cooked dishes wafting through the air. With a friend, we decided to venture into a small local restaurant, the 126 Restaurant, known for its simple atmosphere and affordable prices. Upon entering, we were greeted by plastic tables and a friendly vibe. The menu was in Khmer, which made our choice a bit tricky. But, armed with our curiosity, we decided to dive in.
Three to Five Breakfasts to Recognise
Here are some dishes you can easily recognise and order during your first Cambodian breakfast:
- Kuy teav : une soupe de nouilles de riz servie avec du bouillon, souvent accompagnée de viande, d'herbes et de citron.
- Nom banh chok : des nouilles de riz avec une sauce au poisson, généralement servies avec des légumes frais et parfois du poisson.
- Borbor : une sorte de porridge de riz, souvent agrémenté de viande ou de légumes.
How to Order Simply
Ordering in Cambodia is simpler than it seems. Here are a few tips to help you:
- Regardez ce que les locaux commandent, cela peut vous donner des idées.
- N'hésitez pas à pointer du doigt sur le menu ou à demander au serveur ce qu'il recommande.
- Si vous aimez les plats épicés, demandez un peu de piment à part, car les Cambodgiens aiment leur nourriture relevée.
Prices, Hours, and Observed Habits
Breakfast prices in Cambodia are very affordable. In markets or small restaurants, you can find dishes for $0.50 to $1.50. For example, at Psar Leu, the upper market in Siem Reap, the experience is authentic and the prices are very attractive. Most Cambodians have their breakfast early, often between 5 am and 9 am.
Mistakes to Avoid
When ordering, there are a few mistakes to avoid:
- Ne pas hésiter à poser des questions sur les ingrédients si vous avez des allergies.
- Évitez de commander des plats trop épicés si vous n'êtes pas sûr de votre tolérance au piment.
- Ne pas oublier que certains plats peuvent être servis avec des garnitures que vous ne souhaitez pas, alors demandez à les retirer si nécessaire.
The Choice We Recommend to Start
For a first experience, I recommend starting with kuy teav. It's an iconic dish that well represents Khmer cuisine. You can find it in many restaurants like Malis Restaurant in Phnom Penh or Chep Por's in Siem Reap. These establishments are known for their quality and authenticity.
In summary, having a Cambodian breakfast is a delicious and accessible adventure. With these tips, you'll be ready to savour the local flavours without hesitation. Remember to let your instincts guide you and enjoy every bite.