Breakfast FoodComfort FoodKhmer Dish

    Fermented Fish Noodle Soup

    Num Banh Chok

    4.7៛4k – ៛12kBest found at local markets in the early morning when the noodles are freshly pressed and the vegetable garnishes are crisp and chilled.
    Annie Do
    Overview

    Fermented rice noodles topped with creamy, lemongrass-infused fish gravy.

    Hand-made fermented rice noodles served in a vibrant, herbaceous fish-based broth, topped with crunchy raw banana blossoms, cucumber, water lily stems, and fresh mint leaves.
    Gallery

    Photos

    What's in it

    • Fresh rice noodles
    • Fish-based curry gravy
    • Turmeric
    • Lemongrass
    • Kaffir lime leaves
    • Galangal
    • Banana blossom
    • Bean sprouts
    • Herbs and greens
    When to eat

    Best moments to enjoy it

    BreakfastLunch

    Best found at local markets in the early morning when the noodles are freshly pressed and the vegetable garnishes are crisp and chilled.

    The story

    Origin & history

    A quintessential Khmer breakfast staple, this dish has deep roots in Cambodian culture, often associated with local folklore and the country’s agricultural history surrounding rice cultivation.

    At the stall

    How to order & pay

    Ordering

    Ask for "Num Banh Chok" with "Samlar Prohaer" (the fish-based gravy) at local market stalls.

    Paying

    Cash only in ៛; look for stalls where locals are queuing for the freshest batches.

    Good to know

    Allergens, nutrition & health

    Allergens

    Fish, shellfish (shrimp paste/fish sauce).

    Nutrition & benefits

    A refreshing, light meal rich in probiotics from fermented noodles and fiber from abundant fresh raw vegetables.

    Health notes

    It’s a market-fresh dish; eat early in the morning when turnover is highest to ensure the vegetable garnishes are perfectly crisp.

    How to eat it

    Use chopsticks to pile your bowl high with the provided fresh herbs and raw vegetables. Mix thoroughly so the cool greens balance the warm, aromatic gravy before digging in with a spoon.