Phnom Penh Street Food: Shrimps & Prawns

Phnom Penh Street Food: Shrimps & Prawns

When it comes to seafood, shrimps and prawns are something I never get tired of, and the ones you get at the Central Market are particularly delicious. The flavor is rich and savory, with just the right touch of sweetness to it. In Cambodia, we also eat the gooey stuff in the head-part of the shrimp, which is thick, creamy, and scrumptious. I just can’t get enough of it, and if you haven’t tried it, I can only recommend that you do, or you’ll be missing out on a real treat.

The shrimps at Central Market are humongous and typically marinated and stir-fried in a mixture of spices and palm sugar. The ones in the photos are the ones I had last time I was at Central Market, and they were so delicious they almost compared to my grandma’s shrimp, which says a lot about how good they were. The meat was soft and slightly chewy, and the seasoning was well-balanced, making each bite a delightful experience.

Moving on to the grilled prawns, they are another standout dish that you should definitely try. The prawns are grilled over burning charcoal, and usually served in a chili sauce that combines sweet and salty flavors in a way that’s just perfect for seafood.

After you finish eating do not be bewildered like I was, if you are handed a bowl of water with lime in it! I was very confused but my friend was there to be my savior. This bowl of water is meant for you to clean your hands with, after you are done eating! I’ve been peeling shrimps and clams the whole mealtime so that was nice to have something to clean my hands with. The limes act like a soap. (Somebody save me from embarrassment please)

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Welcome to my Cambodia blog. I’ve been to Cambodia many times over the years, and it’s a country I keep coming back to. Not just because of the incredible food and fascinating places to visit, but also because I’ve met some truly special people who, over the years, have become close friends. On my Cambodia blog, I’m sharing my favorite restaurants, cafés, and local food experiences, along with the places and moments that have stayed with me long after each trip. You’ll find posts from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and other parts of Cambodia, including Takeo, where I’ve spent a lot of time and experienced a side of the country that most visitors never get to see. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Cambodia or you already know the country well, I hope you’ll find plenty of inspiration, along with practical tips to help you plan your own visit.

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