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Prahok - Traditional Cambodian Fermented Fish Paste Dish

Name: Prahok - Traditional Cambodian Fermented Fish Paste Dish
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: {'ingredient': 'Steamed rice', 'amount': '4 cups'}; {'ingredient': 'Fresh vegetables', 'amount': '2 cups (such as cucumber, lettuce, and assorted herbs)'}; {'ingredient': 'Vegetable oil', 'amount': '2 tablespoons'}; {'ingredient': 'Water', 'amount': '1 cup'}; {'ingredient': 'Sugar', 'amount': '1 tablespoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Fish sauce', 'amount': '2 tablespoons'}; {'ingredient': 'Galangal', 'amount': '1 tablespoon, minced'}; {'ingredient': 'Kaffir lime leaves', 'amount': '2 leaves, thinly sliced'}; {'ingredient': 'Lemongrass', 'amount': '1 stalk, minced'}; {'ingredient': 'Shallots', 'amount': '2, thinly sliced'}; {'ingredient': 'Garlic', 'amount': '4 cloves, minced'}; {'ingredient': 'Pork belly', 'amount': '1 pound, sliced'}; {'ingredient': 'Prahok', 'amount': '1/2 cup'}

Prahok is a cherished Cambodian delicacy that showcases the rich flavors of fermented fish, combining earthy and umami elements with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs. This dish is not just a meal; it's a cultural experience, deeply rooted in Cambodian history where it has been enjoyed for centuries. The pungent, savory prahok sauce harmonizes beautifully with the crispy fresh vegetables and tender pork belly, creating a delightful balance that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Cambodia.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Steamed rice: 4 cups
Fresh vegetables: 2 cups (such as cucumber, lettuce, and assorted herbs)
Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
Water: 1 cup
Sugar: 1 tablespoon
Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
Galangal: 1 tablespoon, minced
Kaffir lime leaves: 2 leaves, thinly sliced
Lemongrass: 1 stalk, minced
Shallots: 2, thinly sliced
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Pork belly: 1 pound, sliced
Prahok: 1/2 cup

Instructions

In a mortar and pestle, pound the prahok until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. This will help release its unique flavors.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough to sauté the ingredients.
Add the minced garlic, sliced shallots, minced lemongrass, sliced kaffir lime leaves, and minced galangal. Sauté these aromatics until they become fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Introduce the sliced pork belly to the pan, cooking until it turns golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the pounded prahok, fish sauce, sugar, and water, mixing well to combine all ingredients. Adjust the water if needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The flavors will meld beautifully during this time.
Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with the fresh vegetables on the side. Enjoy the contrast of the savory dish with the crisp, refreshing vegetables.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 40 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 30g • Carbs: 40g • Protein: 20g • Sodium: 1200mg • Sugar: 2g