A Taste of Cambodia Soup: Samlor

Overview of Samlor

• The word “samlor” translates to “soup” in Khmer.
• The defining characteristic of samlor is its sour taste, typically by using ingredients like tamarind paste, lime juice, or sour fruits such (green mangoes or starfruit).
• The soup can be customized with proteins like chicken, beef, pork, or seafood, such as fish or shrimp.
• Samlor typically includes many vegetables. Cabbage, mushrooms, green beans, carrots, and eggplant are commonly used, but other vegetables can also be added based on personal preference and seasonal availability.
• Fresh herbs play a crucial role in samlor. They usually are cilantro, basil, and mint.

Cambodia Beef Soup With Vegetables

Samlor is a comforting and nourishing dish that is enjoyed year-round in Cambodia. It is commonly served with steamed rice or as a standalone meal. The combination of flavors, the balance of sourness and other taste elements, and the use of fresh ingredients make samlor a beloved and popular dish among Cambodians and visitors alike.

Ingredients of Cambodian Samlor

While the specific ingredients can vary depending on the region and personal preferences, here are some common ingredients used in Cambodian samlor.

• Proteins: Depending on the recipe, samlor can include proteins like chicken, beef, pork, or seafood (such as fish or shrimp).
• Vegetables: Various vegetables are often included, such as cabbage, mushrooms, green beans, and carrots.
• Fish sauce: A popular condiment in Cambodian cuisine, it enhances the umami taste of the soup.
• Prahok: A fermented fish paste that adds a unique and pungent flavor to the soup.
• Tamarind paste: Used to add a tangy and slightly sour taste to the soup.
• Lemongrass: Adds a citrusy and aromatic flavor to the soup.
• Galangal: A root similar to ginger, it provides a distinct and slightly spicy flavor.
• Kaffir lime leaves: These leaves have a strong citrus aroma and add a refreshing taste to the soup.
• Garlic: Adds a savory flavor to the broth.
• Shallots: Provide a mild onion-like flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Common herbs used in samlor include cilantro, basil, and mint, which add freshness and aroma.
• Chili peppers: For those who enjoy spiciness, chili peppers can be added to provide heat.

These are just some of the basic ingredients that are commonly used in Cambodian samlor. The exact recipe and combination of ingredients can vary, so feel free to experiment and adjust the ingredients to your taste preferences.

Simple Steps To Cook 

Here are some simple steps to cook a basic version of Cambodian samlor.

Simple Cooking Steps

Remember, these steps outline a basic recipe, and you can customize the samlor by adding other ingredients or adjusting the flavors to your liking. Cooking times may vary depending on the ingredients used, so be sure to taste and adjust as you go along.

4 Distinctive Types Of Cambodian Soups That You Should Try

Samlor Machu - The Typical Sour Soup

This popular fish soup often features freshwater fish, such as catfish or snakehead, cooked in a flavorful broth with several vegetables, including morning glory, water spinach, and bean sprouts. The soup is typically seasoned with local herbs, such as lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, giving it a refreshing and aromatic profile.

Samlor Machu

Where to eat in Cambodia:

• Chanrey Tree: Pokambor Ave, Siem Reap (+855 17 799 587)
• Malis Restaurant: 136 Preah Norodom Blvd (41), Phnom Penh (+855 23 221 022)
• Embassy Restaurant: Street 27 (King's Road Village), Siem Reap (+855 89 282 911)

Samlor Korko - The Healthiest Soup

Used to be served for the king for a long time, this vegetable soup is a medley of flavors and textures. It combines an array of seasonal vegetables, such as pumpkin, long beans, and cabbage, in a light and savory broth. The multivitamin soup is often enhanced with the addition of prahok, a fermented fish paste that adds depth and richness to the dish.

Samlor Korko

Where to eat in Cambodia:

• Malis Restaurant: 136 Preah Norodom Blvd (41), Phnom Penh (+855 23 221 022)
• Khmer Kitchen Restaurant: Street 09, Siem Reap (+855 12 763 468)
• Mie Cafe: 85 Phum Treng Khum Slorgram, Siem Reap (+855 12 791 371)

Samlor Proher - Savory Vegetable Soup

This soup is a delightful blend of sweet, and spicy flavors. It typically features a combination of ingredients like tamarind, pineapple, tomato, and prawns simmered in a tangy broth. The soup is finished with a touch of palm sugar and fish sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Samlor Proher

Where to eat in Cambodia:

• Khmer Surin Restaurant: 8e0, Street St 57, Phnom Penh (+855 12 887 320)
• Samroh Srah Srang Restaurant: Banteay Srei Village, Sangkat Nokor Thom Siem Reap, 17255 (+855 92 305 097)

Samlor Machu Kreung 

Hailing from the coastal regions, this soup showcases the abundant seafood along the coast. It combines a variety of fish, shellfish, and local vegetables in a fragrant broth infused with lemongrass and turmeric.

Samlor Machu Kreung

Where to eat in Cambodia:

• Uncle Fu Restaurant: 180 Street 294 BKK 1 Phnom Penh (+855 10 319 311)
• Machu Kampong Saom: JGH6+8C3, Preah Sihanouk (+855 81 885 566)

Khmer soup is not only a delicious and comforting dish but also a reflection of Cambodia's cultural heritage and the country's love for flavorful and wholesome cuisine. Exploring the diverse flavors and variations of Khmer soup is a wonderful way to experience the culinary traditions of Cambodia. 

If you want to book a food tour to taste various unique cuisines of Cambodia, do not hesitate to contact BestPrice Travel for the best options below!

(Image source: Internet)