Cambodian Prawn Amok
Prep time: 15 mins |
Cook time: 15 mins |
Serves: 2–3
A classic heritage dish from Siem Reap, this aromatic Khmer curry infuses succulent king prawns with fresh homemade Kroeung (yellow lemongrass paste) and silky coconut cream. Perfectly balanced, fragrant, and comforting.
Ingredients
For the Fresh Yellow Kroeung Paste:
- 2 stalks Lemongrass (inner white part only, finely sliced)
- 2 Shallots, peeled & chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, peeled
- 1-inch knob Fresh Ginger or Galangal
- 1 tsp Ground Turmeric
- 1 Fresh Red Chilli (deseeded for mild warmth)
- Zest of 1 Kaffir Lime (or regular lime)
For the Prawn Curry:
- 300g Raw King Prawns (peeled, deveined, tail-on)
- 1 tbsp Cooking Oil (Peanut or Vegetable oil)
- 250ml Coconut Cream
- 1 tbsp Fish Sauce
- 1 tsp Palm Sugar (or light brown sugar)
- 1 cup Bok Choy or Baby Spinach (chopped)
- Fresh Basil or Mint Leaves (for garnish)
- Steamed Jasmine Rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Blend the Kroeung Paste: Combine all curry paste ingredients in a mini food processor (or pound with a traditional mortar and pestle) until a smooth, vibrant yellow paste forms.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the cooking oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the freshly prepared Kroeung paste and stir-fry gently for 1 to 2 minutes until very aromatic.
- Build the Coconut Sauce: Pour in the coconut cream, stirring continuously to merge it with the paste. Bring to a soft, gentle simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Cook the Prawns: Stir in the fish sauce and palm sugar. Add the raw king prawns and chopped bok choy (or spinach). Simmer gently for 4–5 minutes until the prawns turn pink, tender, and fully cooked.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat and fold in fresh basil or mint leaves. Serve hot alongside a generous bowl of steamed Jasmine rice.
Featured in our travelogue: The Lost Kingdom: Exploring Siem Reap & Angkor Wat →
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