Pairing Nom Banh Chok correctly — a note on Angkor beer

Most people overlook how much the right drink changes Nom Banh Chok. I ordered it with Angkor beer and the lightly sweet and fragrant elements of the dish sharpened considerably against the pairing. kroeung lemongrass paste in particular became more prominent in a good way.

prahok is a uniquely Cambodian ingredient that foreigners find challenging but locals consider essential. The a Siem Reap market food stall is where you learn these pairings — they evolved together. If you've been having Nom Banh Chok with the wrong drink, try it correctly once. It's a genuinely different experience. The restaurant deserves credit for getting this right.