A Khmer Morning Meal That Will Get Your Taste Buds Moving.

The Contents Will Astound You!

Craving a New Morning Favorite?

This Secret Street Food Staple Is About to Change Your Breakfast Game Forever!

Recipe Index

Fish Amok
Lok Lak (Stir-fried Beef)
Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
Samlor Korko (Stirring Pot Soup)
Beef Saraman Curry
Char Kroeung Sach Ko (Stir-fried Lemongrass Beef)
Bai Sach Chrouk (Pork and Rice)
Kuy Teav (Noodle Soup)
Prahok Ktis (Pork and Coconut Dip)
Num Ansom Chek (Banana Sticky Rice Cake)
Lap Khmer (Lime-marinated Khmer Beef Salad)
Char Kdav (Caramelized Palm Sugar Chicken)
Maam Snoul (Fermented Fish)
Nom Kong (Khmer Donuts)
Twa Ko (Khmer Sausage)

What if I told you there’s a breakfast dish so irresistible, it makes people line up at the crack of dawn in Cambodia?

Imagine waking up to a plate of tender, sweet, and savory grilled pork, perfectly paired with fluffy jasmine rice and crunchy pickled veggies.

Yep, that’s Bai Sach Chrouk – the mouthwatering Cambodian classic that’s about to flip your breakfast routine upside down. In just 30 minutes, you could be enjoying a breakfast that’s not just filling, but also packed with flavors that will have your taste buds begging for more.

Table of Contents

Bai Sach Chrouk (បាយសាច់ជ្រូក)

Overview

Bai Sach Chrouk, which translates to “Rice with Pork,” is a beloved Cambodian breakfast dish. It features thinly sliced pork marinated in garlic and soy sauce, grilled to perfection, and served over a bed of warm rice. The dish is typically accompanied by pickled vegetables and a clear soup, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal to start the day.

Cultural Significance

Role in Cambodian Breakfast Culture

Bai Sach Chrouk is a staple breakfast dish in Cambodia, enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Its popularity stems from its simplicity, affordability, and delicious flavor profile.

Historical Context

While the exact origins of Bai Sach Chrouk are unclear, it represents the Khmer culinary tradition of combining grilled meats with rice, a practice that has been part of the culture for centuries.

When It’s Eaten

Bai Sach Chrouk is primarily a breakfast dish, typically served from early morning until about 9 or 10 AM in local markets and street-side stalls. In Siem Reap, tourists can find it served throughout the day in some restaurants catering to visitors wanting to experience authentic Cambodian breakfast at any time.

Key Information

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus 2 hours to overnight for marinating)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the pork:

500g pork belly, thinly sliced
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp vegetable oil

For serving:

3 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 cucumber, sliced
2 tomatoes, sliced

For the pickled vegetables:

1 carrot, julienned
1/2 daikon radish, julienned
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt

For the soup (optional):

4 cups chicken broth
1 bunch green onions, chopped

Notes on Ingredients

Palm sugar can be found at the Old Market (Psar Chas) in Siem Reap. If unavailable, brown sugar is a suitable substitute.
For the most authentic flavor, use Cambodian soy sauce if possible.

Instructions

Marinating the pork:

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, palm sugar, and minced garlic.
Add the thinly sliced pork and mix well to coat.
Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Preparing the pickled vegetables:

In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
Add julienned carrot and daikon. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking the pork:

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil.
Grill the marinated pork slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until caramelized and cooked through.

Preparing the soup (if serving):

Bring chicken broth to a boil in a small pot.
Add chopped green onions and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Serving:

Divide the warm rice among four bowls.
Top each bowl with grilled pork slices.
Serve with sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and pickled vegetables on the side.
If using, serve the clear soup in small bowls alongside the rice.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally served with the rice, pork, and vegetables arranged separately on the plate.
Some prefer to drizzle any remaining marinade over the rice for extra flavor.

Beverage Pairings

Non-alcoholic: Strong Cambodian coffee with sweetened condensed milk (Cafe Touk Doh Koh Touk) or jasmine tea.
Alcoholic: While not typical for breakfast, a light lager beer complements the flavors well for later-day servings.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 50g
Fats: 22g
High in B vitamins from the pork and complex carbohydrates from the rice

Variations

Regional Differences

Some versions include a fried egg on top of the rice.
In some areas, a fish sauce-based dipping sauce (Tuk Trey) is served alongside.

Modern Adaptations

Health-conscious versions might use leaner cuts of pork or even chicken.
Some upscale restaurants in Siem Reap offer fusion versions, incorporating local herbs or exotic spices.

Cultural Notes

The dish reflects the Cambodian preference for starting the day with a hearty, savory meal.
Eating Bai Sach Chrouk from street vendors is a common social activity, especially among workers and students.

Chef’s Tips

For the best flavor, grill the pork over charcoal if possible. The smoky flavor adds depth to the dish.
Don’t skip the marinating time; it’s crucial for developing the signature flavor of the pork.
Slice the pork as thinly as possible for quick cooking and a tender result.

Related Experiences

“Early Morning Market Tour” in Siem Reap, where you can taste Bai Sach Chrouk from local vendors.
Cooking class focused on Cambodian breakfast dishes at a local culinary school.
Visit to a local pork farm to learn about pig-raising practices in Cambodia.

Editor’s Note: Hey, food lovers! Get ready to add some serious sizzle to your mornings. Bai Sach Chrouk isn’t just another breakfast – it’s a game-changing experience that’s as simple to make as it is to devour. This dish has been a favorite in Cambodia for centuries, and once you taste it, you’ll see why. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, this recipe is your ticket to bringing a slice of Cambodia into your home. We’ve also added some bonus tips to help you nail it every time. So grab your apron, and let’s cook up something legendary!

Finding Coworking Spaces in Siem Reap

Key Takeaways:

Mouthwatering Morning Magic: Bai Sach Chrouk is a Cambodian breakfast superstar, combining marinated, grilled pork with fluffy rice. It’s a quick and easy way to start your day with a flavor explosion.
Street Food Vibes at Home: Traditionally served by street vendors, you can now whip up this iconic dish right in your own kitchen. It’s like having a Cambodian market in your home!
Perfect Marinade Magic: The secret to that drool-worthy pork? A marinade of soy sauce, palm sugar, and garlic. Let it soak overnight for the juiciest, most flavorful meat you’ve ever had.
Pickled Perfection: Don’t skip the pickled veggies – they add the perfect crunch and tangy bite that balances the rich, savory pork. Plus, they’re super easy to make!
Soup for the Soul: Want to take it up a notch? Serve your Bai Sach Chrouk with a simple, comforting chicken broth soup. It’s the perfect way to round out this delicious breakfast.
No-Fuss Cooking: No fancy equipment needed here – just a grill pan or skillet and a little bit of patience. Even beginners can pull off this dish with ease.
A Slice of Cambodian Culture: This dish is more than just food; it’s a taste of Cambodia’s rich culinary traditions. Each bite connects you to a culture that values simple ingredients and bold flavors.
Super Versatile: Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a light lunch, Bai Sach Chrouk fits the bill. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a fried egg on top!
Healthy and Hearty: This meal isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with protein and nutrients. Plus, you can easily adapt it to be leaner by using different cuts of meat.
Cultural Connection: Eating Bai Sach Chrouk is a beloved morning ritual in Cambodia, bringing people together in markets and on the streets. Now, you can be part of that tradition, no plane ticket required!
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients you probably already have at home, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Sometimes, the simplest things are the most satisfying.