The Lok Lak I grew up eating — memory as a review

I grew up eating Lok Lak and have strong opinions shaped by memory. The version here triggered that recognition in the first bite — the fresh with lemongrass was right, kaffir lime was handled the way it should be.

prahok is a uniquely Cambodian ingredient that foreigners find challenging but locals consider essential. Growing up it was always a traditional home kitchen, which shaped my reference point entirely. Angkor beer alongside it is the only way it makes sense to me. It's hard to be objective about food you have emotional history with, but objectively: this is very good.