Prahok Ktis Recipe

Prahok Ktis is a traditional Cambodian dish that showcases the unique flavors of fermented fish, known as prahok. This savory dish is often enjoyed as a dip accompanied by fresh or steamed vegetables, providing a harmonious balance of pungent, salty, and spicy flavors. Prahok, the standout ingredient in this recipe, is a staple in Cambodian cuisine, representing the rich culinary heritage of the Khmer people. It is traditionally made by fermenting fish with salt, resulting in a robust and distinct taste that forms the backbone of this creamy sauce.

Ingredients

• 250g of prahok (fermented fish)
• 100g of pork, minced
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of shallots, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of lemongrass, finely sliced
• 1 tablespoon of galangal, minced
• 2 kaffir lime leaves, thinly sliced
• 200ml of coconut milk
• 1 red chili, sliced
• 1 tablespoon of palm sugar
• 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
• Juice of 1 lime
• Assorted vegetables for serving (such as cucumber, cabbage, and green beans)

Preparation

1. Begin by soaking the prahok in water for about 30 minutes. This will help to mellow the intense flavors. Once soaked, finely mince the prahok and set it aside.
2. Prepare the paste by blending together the garlic, shallots, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves until smooth.

Cooking Process

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the prepared paste to the pan, stirring it for about 2 minutes until aromatic.
3. Stir in the minced pork and cook until it begins to brown.
4. Next, add the minced prahok to the mixture and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and stir well to combine.
6. Add chili, palm sugar, and fish sauce, adjusting to taste.
7. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until well combined and slightly thickened. You can use a cooking timer for accuracy.
8. Finish with the juice of lime before removing from heat.

How to Enjoy

Prahok Ktis is traditionally enjoyed as a flavorful dip. Arrange an assortment of fresh or steamed vegetables around the dip and serve as an appetizer or side dish. The vibrant flavors of the prahok and aromatic herbs pair beautifully with the crisp textures of fresh vegetables, making for a delightful culinary experience.