Embark on a culinary adventure to Cambodia, where the vibrant flavors and aromatic spices of traditional Khmer cuisine await. Among the treasures of Cambodian gastronomy lies Cha Kroeung Sach Ko, a dish that embodies the essence of Cambodian cooking with its harmonious blend of fresh herbs, fiery chilies, and succulent beef. This beloved dish, renowned for its rich flavors and cultural significance, holds a special place in the hearts and palates of Cambodians around the world.

In this recipe, we invite you to delve into the art of crafting Cha Kroeung Sach Ko from scratch, as we guide you through each step with precision and passion. From selecting the finest ingredients to mastering the art of balancing sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, we'll ensure that your culinary journey through Cambodian cuisine is both authentic and rewarding.

Join us as we unlock the secrets behind the tantalizing aroma and mouthwatering taste of Cambodian Cha Kroeung Sach Ko, and experience the joy of recreating this classic dish in your own kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious food enthusiast, prepare to be transported to the bustling streets of Cambodia with every savory bite.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 500g beef (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon shallots, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For Stir-frying:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 stalks lemongrass, white part only, thinly sliced
• 2 red chilies, thinly sliced (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Handful of fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Steamed jasmine rice

Instructions:

1- In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, chopped lemongrass, minced ginger, minced shallots, and vegetable oil. Mix well.

2- Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, making sure each slice is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

3- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and shallots, and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4- Add the sliced lemongrass and red chilies to the skillet, and stir-fry for another minute.

5- Increase the heat to high and add the marinated beef to the skillet. Stir-fry the beef for 2-3 minutes until it starts to brown.

6- Add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet, and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

7- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Add fresh basil leaves and toss everything together until well combined.

8- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the stir-fried lemongrass beef to a serving dish.

9- Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice.

Enjoy your flavorful Cambodian Cha Kroeung Sach Ko!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients used in the Cambodian Cha Kroeung Sach Ko recipe:

Beef (500g, sirloin or flank steak):

• Calories: 960 kcal
• Protein: 100g
• Fat: 64g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins which are essential for muscle growth, energy production, and overall health.

Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 20 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Adds savory flavor and provides a source of protein, while also contributing to the umami taste profile of the dish.

Fish Sauce (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 30 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Enhances the savory flavor and adds depth to the dish, while also providing essential amino acids and minerals.

Oyster Sauce (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Adds richness and sweetness to the dish, while also providing a source of umami flavor.

Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 90 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Adds sweetness to balance the flavors in the dish, providing quick energy and enhancing caramelization during cooking.

Garlic (3 cloves, minced):

• Calories: 12 kcal
• Protein: 0.6g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2.8g
• Fiber: 0.2g

benefits: Adds aromatic flavor and contains compounds that may have antibacterial and immune-boosting properties.

Lemongrass (1 tablespoon, finely chopped):

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1.2g
• Fiber: 0.4g

benefits: Adds a citrusy, herbal flavor and contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and cholesterol levels.

Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced):

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1.1g
• Fiber: 0.1g

benefits: Adds warmth and depth of flavor, while also containing compounds that may help with digestion and reduce nausea.

Shallots (1 tablespoon, minced):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2.4g
• Fiber: 0.4g

benefits: Adds a mild onion flavor and contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon + 2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Provides fat for cooking and helps distribute heat evenly, while also adding richness to the dish.

Red Chilies (2):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Protein: 0.4g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 1.9g
• Fiber: 0.8g

benefits: Adds heat and spice to the dish, while also containing capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting and pain-relieving properties.

Onion (1):

• Calories: 44 kcal
• Protein: 1.2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 10.4g
• Fiber: 1.7g

benefits: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor, while also providing antioxidants and prebiotic fibers that support gut health.

Red Bell Pepper (1):

• Calories: 37 kcal
• Protein: 1.3g
• Fat: 0.4g
• Carbohydrates: 7.5g
• Fiber: 2.5g

benefits: Adds sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color to the dish, while also providing a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Green Bell Pepper (1):

• Calories: 33 kcal
• Protein: 1.3g
• Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 6.4g
• Fiber: 2.5g

benefits: Adds freshness, crunch, and a slightly bitter flavor to balance the dish, while also providing vitamin C and antioxidants.

Fresh Basil Leaves (Handful):

• Calories: 1 kcal
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.1g
• Fiber: 0.1g

benefits: Adds a fresh, aromatic flavor and contains essential oils and antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Salt and Pepper (to taste): Negligible calories

benefits: Enhances the flavors of the dish and helps balance the taste.

Steamed Jasmine Rice (1 cup cooked):

• Calories: 205 kcal
• Protein: 4.3g
• Fat: 0.4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 0.6g

benefits: Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy, while also complementing the flavors of the dish and adding texture.

These values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as brand, specific ingredients used, and cooking methods.