Grilled squid is a must-try for seafood-lovers in Phnom Penh. One of my favorite places to go for grill squid is Central Market, where you will come across several food stands selling grilled squid.
You are given the choice to pick a squid to your liking. The squid is then grilled above burning charcoal, and then gets prepared by the chef. You can watch as your squid gets prepared. There is a little hint of seafood, but it is not fishy in any way. You’d expect the charcoal to give it a smoky taste but it has no hints of being burnt at all. It is fairly meaty, tasting somewhat sweet and comparable to a lobster or scallop.
One of the best things about the grilled squid is the accompanying chili sauce. The sauce adds a punch of flavor to your dish, but it isn’t overly spicy. Instead, it has a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. It really complements the squid, and, oh my god, is it delicious!
You are also given the option to have your squid served with rice. The rice will help to balance the flavors and make for a filling meal. It is also an excellent way to soak up all the delicious sauce.The grilled squid I’ve had at Central Market is honestly, hands down, the greatest squid I had in Phnom Penh besides my grandmother’s cooking (nothing beats that). Grilled squid gets a 10 out of 10 from me.
