The Nom Banh Chok I grew up eating — memory as a review

I grew up eating Nom Banh Chok and have strong opinions shaped by memory. The version here triggered that recognition in the first bite — the subtly fermented and umami was right, kroeung lemongrass paste was handled the way it should be.

Cambodian cuisine shares roots with Thai and Vietnamese cooking but has its own distinct identity shaped by Khmer culture. Growing up it was always a village feast during festival season, which shaped my reference point entirely. palm wine 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.