EATING VEGETARIAN IN CAMBODIA

Before traveling to Cambodia I did a lot of research about the kind of food they eat and if the Khmer even have vegetarian dishes. And even tho they eat a lot of fish and meat, you will always find a vegetarian dish on the menu. If they don’t have anything don’t be shy to ask them if it’s possible to prepare the dish without the meat. The Khmer are really lovely people and happy to do so.

Food in Cambodia is very cheap. You will be able to get a full meal for five dollars, including drinks. Breakfast is often included in the hotel/ hostel price.

This is a quick overview about the vegetarian food options in Cambodia:

Breakfast

For breakfast you can often choose between pancakes or french toast. With that you will get a plate of fresh fruits.

Fried Noodles/ Fried Rice

This dish you will find in every restaurant. Most of the time they not only serve it with meat or shrimps but also Tofu or just vegetables. If there isn’t a vegetarian fried rice or noodles on the menu just ask, if you can have it without the meat or shrimp. If yo uadk nicely it’s never a problem and they’re happy to prepare it for you.

Amok Tofu

This curry is very typical to Cambodia and usually has fish or chicken in it. However in most places they also serve it with Tofu. Just ask, if they can prepare it without the fishsauce. You might need to wait a little longer since they have to make it from scratch.

If you want to learn how to make this curry, i highly recommend you take a cooking course. This is not only a lot of fun but you will cook some of the most delicious food you’ve ever made.

Last Resort: Indian Food

There are a lot of Indian Restaurants in Cambodia. The food is usually good and just as cheap as local food.

As you can see, you will always find a vegetarian dish on the menu in Cambodia and never have to go hungry. Most restaurants are happy to prepare something vegetarian for you if you ask nicely.

If you are on a vegan diet I am not sure what your options are in restaurants since a lot of dishes like froed rice contain eggs.