Cha Kroeung
Cha kroeung represents the essence of Khmer cuisine, showcasing the fragrant paste called kroeung, considered the soul of many Cambodian dishes. Preparing this paste, which combines lemongrass, galangal, fresh turmeric and kaffir lime leaves pounded by hand in a stone mortar, is an art passed down from generation to generation. Unlike many Southeast Asian curry pastes, Khmer kroeung usually does not contain large amounts of chili, instead emphasizing the freshness and aromatic complexity of the herbs used. Cha kroeung with beef is one of the most popular versions, alongside chicken or fish variants, often served as a family lunch on ordinary days.
Kroeung paste
The fragrant blend of lemongrass, galangal and turmeric forms the base of the dish.
Thinly sliced beef
Thin slices of beef cook quickly over high heat.
Peppers and green beans
Crisp vegetables add color and freshness to the dish.
Served with steamed rice
The dish is enjoyed alongside hot white rice.
Ingredients 4 servings
- 500g beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp kroeung paste (lemongrass, galangal, turmeric)
- 1 red pepper, sliced into strips
- 150g green beans, cut into pieces
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp palm sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 kaffir lime leaves, finely shredded
- Steamed white rice, for serving
How to make it
- 1Cut the beef into very thin slices, against the grain, so it stays tender when cooked.
- 2Heat the oil well in a pan or wok over high heat, then add the kroeung paste, quickly stir-frying it for a few seconds until fragrant, without letting it burn.
- 3Immediately add the beef and stir-fry over high heat, stirring constantly, until browned on all sides.
- 4Add the red pepper and green beans, continuing to stir-fry over high heat for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables stay crisp.
- 5Deglaze with the fish sauce and palm sugar, stirring well to coat all the ingredients.
- 6Add the finely shredded kaffir lime leaves just before taking the pan off the heat, to keep the aroma fresh.
- 7Serve the dish immediately, hot, alongside steamed white rice.
Nutritional info
per serving (~350 g)
Estimated nutritional values.
Pairs perfectly with
