Embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant streets of Cambodia with this authentic recipe for Num Banh Chok. A beloved dish deeply rooted in Cambodian culture, Num Banh Chok offers a symphony of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds and evoke the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine.

Num Banh Chok, also known as Khmer noodles, consists of fresh rice noodles bathed in a fragrant coconut-based curry broth, accompanied by an array of crisp, garden-fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. Whether enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner, this dish showcases the rich culinary heritage of Cambodia and reflects the country's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and nourishing.

In this recipe, we'll guide you through the process of creating authentic Num Banh Chok in your own kitchen, allowing you to savor the flavors of Cambodia wherever you are. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the vibrant and diverse flavors of Cambodian cuisine.

Ingredients:

For the Rice Noodles:

• 400g fresh rice noodles (or dried rice noodles, prepared according to package instructions)
• Water for boiling
• Ice water (for cooling the noodles)

For the Fish-Based Curry Gravy:

• 400g white fish fillets (such as tilapia or catfish), deboned and cut into chunks
• 3 cups water
• 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings and Garnishes:

• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• Fresh herbs such as mint, basil, and cilantro
• Lime wedges

Instructions:

Prepare the Rice Noodles:

1- If using fresh rice noodles, blanch them in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes until they are just tender. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

2- If using dried rice noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Fish-Based Curry Gravy:

1- In a pot, bring the water to a simmer. Add the lemongrass stalks, kaffir lime leaves, fish sauce, sugar, and turmeric powder. Stir to combine.

2- Add the fish fillet chunks to the pot and simmer gently until the fish is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

3- Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth to remove the lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, then return the broth to the pot.

4- In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.

5- Transfer the sautéed garlic and shallot to the pot with the fish broth. Stir to combine and simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Num Banh Chok:

1- To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls.

2- Ladle the fish-based curry gravy over the noodles.

3- Arrange the bean sprouts, cucumber slices, shredded cabbage, and lettuce on top of the noodles.

4- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your Authentic Cambodian Num Banh Chok!

1- Mix everything together before enjoying this delightful Khmer breakfast dish, savoring the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make Num Banh Chok a beloved culinary treasure of Cambodia.

Nutritional Values:

here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients listed:

400g fresh rice noodles (or dried rice noodles):

• Calories: 560 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 128g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy, with minimal fat content.

400g white fish fillets (tilapia or catfish):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 80g
• Fat: 5g

benefits: Excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.

3 cups water (for fish-based curry gravy):

• Calories: 0 kcal
• No significant nutritional value

2 lemongrass stalks:

• Calories: 66 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 9g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, aids in digestion, and may help reduce cholesterol levels

3 kaffir lime leaves:

• Calories: 4 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits: Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

2 tablespoons fish sauce:

• Calories: 20 kcal
• Sodium: 3440mg
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 4g

benefits: Adds depth of flavor to dishes and provides protein along with essential minerals like sodium.

1 tablespoon sugar:

• Calories: 48 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g

benefits:Provides quick energy, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high glycemic index.

1 teaspoon turmeric powder:

• Calories: 8 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

2 cloves garlic:

• Calories: 8 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Known for its immune-boosting properties, contains allicin which may help reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.

1 shallot:

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g

benefits: Adds flavor and texture to dishes, rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

2 tablespoons vegetable oil:

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Fat: 28g

benefits: Contains healthy fats and vitamin E, important for skin health and nutrient absorption.

2 cups bean sprouts:

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 6g

benefits: Low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C and folate.

1 cucumber:

• Calories: 16 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits: Hydrating and low in calories, rich in vitamins K and C, and may help with hydration and weight management.

1 cup shredded cabbage:

• Calories: 22 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits: Low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.

1 cup shredded lettuce:

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits: Low in calories and rich in water content, provides vitamins A and K.

Fresh herbs such as mint, basil, and cilantro (negligible calories and nutrients)

benefits: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, may aid digestion and provide antimicrobial properties.

Lime wedges (negligible calories and nutrients)

benefits: Rich in vitamin C, adds acidity and brightness to dishes, and may aid digestion.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands, preparation methods, and serving sizes.