Easy Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher with Kreung Hloung

Nom Banh Chok (នំបញ្ចុក) is a quintessential traditional dish of Cambodia, celebrated for its unique flavors and cultural significance. This dish features fresh rice noodles served in a fragrant broth, accompanied by an array of crisp vegetables, and has been cherished by generations, securing its place as a staple in Cambodian cuisine.

Unlike many noodle dishes that are typically designated for specific meals, Nom Banh Chok is versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day. Although it is most commonly served at breakfast, it is equally favored for lunch, afternoon snacks, or dinner. Its light yet satisfying nature makes it an ideal choice for various occasions.

A notable characteristic of Nom Banh Chok is the diversity of its broth bases. In this recipe, we will focus on preparing Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher (សម្លប្រហើរ), which features a fragrant fish-based broth enriched with kreung, Cambodia's traditional spice paste. This paste imparts the dish with its signature aroma and depth of flavor, making it a delightful culinary experience.

Making Kreung from scratch can be a time-consuming process, as it demands a variety of fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation. FoodKH Kreung Hloung for Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher provides a convenient option, enabling you to replicate authentic Khmer flavors with minimal effort while maintaining the traditional taste.

Let’s gather our ingredients and begin cooking!

Ingredients Preparation

To make Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher, you'll require just a few ingredients. The broth is easily prepared using Kreung Hloung, while the fresh vegetables are prepared separately and combined right before serving.

For the broth

• 1 pack FoodKH Kreung Hloung for Samlor Broher
• 1–2 tbsp prahok (fermented fish paste), or to preference
• 500–700g snakehead fish (or any firm white fish)
• 500 ml coconut milk
• 1 tsp chicken seasoning (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• 2–3 tbsp roasted peanuts (optional)

 

For serving

While the broth is simmering, prepare your favorite fresh vegetables and rice noodles.

• Fresh Nom Banh Chok rice noodles
• Bean sprouts
• Banana blossom
• Long beans
• Cucumber
• Fresh herbs (mint, basil, or other preferred herbs)
• Lime wedges (optional)
• Fresh chilies or chili sauce (optional)

The vegetables can be mixed and matched based on your preference. While fish is the traditional protein for Samlor Broher, the assortment of fresh vegetables adds the signature freshness, crunch, and texture that make Nom Banh Chok so enjoyable.

Cooking Instruction: Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher

We've organized this recipe in two formats for your convenience. Read on below for detailed step-by-step instructions, complete with photos that will help you navigate each stage of the cooking process.

If you like to see the recipe in action, a video tutorial is also available at the end of this guide.

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the fish. In a pot, bring water to a boil and incorporate a small quantity of fermented fish (prahok) to develop a flavorful broth. Add the fish and cook until thoroughly done.

Once the fish is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Separate the meat from the bones, ensuring that only the fish meat is retained. Set both the fish meat and the cooking broth aside for later use.

• Tip: Do not discard the broth, as it serves as the foundation of your soup and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Step 2: Prepare the Kreung Mixture

While the fish is cooking, prepare the Kreung Hloung according to the package instructions. One pack typically yields approximately eight servings, making it ideal for a full pot of Nom Banh Chok.

In a mortar and pestle, combine the following ingredients:

• 1 pack of Kreung Hloung
• Peanuts (optional, for added richness)

Pound the ingredients together until well combined. Next, incorporate the cooked fish meat, continuing to pound until the mixture is evenly blended.

Gradually pour in 500 ml of coconut milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly integrated. Your soup base is now ready for use.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Once the kreung mixture is prepared, bring approximately one liter of water combined with the reserved fish broth to a gentle boil.

Incorporate the kreung mixture into the pot, stirring thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.

Season to taste with chicken seasoning powder or salt.

Allow the soup to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld harmoniously.

Step 4: Prepare the Noodles and Vegetables

While the soup simmers, take the opportunity to prepare the fresh vegetables. Thoroughly wash and drain your selected vegetables; popular options include:

• Bean sprouts
• Banana blossom
• Long beans
• Cucumber
• Fresh herbs

Next, prepare the Nom Banh Chok rice noodles according to the package instructions. Soften the noodles in hot water until tender, then drain them well.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

Once everything is prepared, transfer the rice noodles to a serving bowl and artfully arrange your preferred fresh vegetables on top.

Ladle the hot Samlor Broher over the noodles, ensuring that each bowl contains an ample portion of fish and broth. To enhance the flavor, finish with fresh chili, extra fish sauce, or a pinch of salt, adjusting the seasoning to suit your personal taste.

 

Serve immediately and savor a comforting bowl of authentic Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher.

Watch how to make it

If you prefer to follow along with a video, please watch our step-by-step cooking tutorial below to see the precise preparation of Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher using FoodKH Kreung Hloung.

A bowl of Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher is more than just a comforting meal, it's a celebration of Cambodia's rich culinary heritage. Whether you're recreating a favorite family recipe or discovering Khmer cuisine for the first time, this dish brings together fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and authentic flavors in every bite.

If you'd like to recreate this recipe at home, FoodKH offers Kreung Hloung for Nom Banh Chok Samlor Broher, along with a wide selection of authentic Cambodian ingredients, sauces, snacks, and pantry staples. With nationwide shipping across the United States, enjoying the flavors of Cambodia has never been easier.