Amok Trey Recipe – Cambodia's Exotic Fish Dish

Name: Amok Trey
Prep time: 1 h 12 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 37 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Cambodia
Ingredients: banana leaves; basil leaves; bell peppers red; brown sugar; cilantro; cloves garlic; coconut milk; coriander; cumin; fish sauce; foil for wrapping; for the amok; for the amok paste; g fish fillets such as catfish; green; mushrooms; palm sugar; red chilies adjust; shallots; shrimp paste; stalks lemongrass; thumb sized piece of galangal; tilapia cut into bite sized pieces; turmeric powder

Amok Trey is a traditional Cambodian fish curry steamed in banana leaves, celebrated for its fragrant blend of spices and coconut milk. This dish holds cultural significance as it showcases the vibrant flavors of Cambodian cuisine, often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions. Typically served with rice, it captures the essence of Khmer culinary heritage.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~350 kcal / serving

Ingredients

For the Amok Paste:
2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic
2 shallots, chopped
1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, peeled and chopped
2-3 red chilies (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon shrimp paste
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
For the Amok:
500 g fish fillets (such as catfish or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup sliced bell peppers (red and green)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Banana leaves or foil (for wrapping)

Instructions

Prepare the Amok Paste

In a food processor or mortar and pestle, blend together the lemongrass, garlic, shallots, galangal, red chilies, shrimp paste, turmeric powder, ground coriander, and ground cumin until you have a smooth paste.

Prepare the Amok Mixture

In a large bowl, mix the amok paste with the coconut milk, fish sauce, and palm sugar.

Add the fish pieces and mix well to coat them with the paste. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes.

Assemble the Amok

Preheat your steamer.

Place a piece of banana leaf or foil in a steaming dish or bowl. If using banana leaves, you can cut them into squares and fold them into small cups or wrappers.

Spoon a portion of the marinated fish mixture into each wrapper or bowl.

Top with sliced mushrooms and bell peppers.

Steam the Amok

Place the wrapped or bowl-contained fish mixture into the steamer.

Steam over medium heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the mixture has set.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and chopped cilantro (if using).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Amok Trey?

Amok Trey is a traditional Cambodian dish featuring fish cooked in a creamy curry made from coconut milk and aromatic spices.

Where does Amok Trey come from?

Amok Trey originates from Cambodia and is considered a staple in Khmer cuisine.

What are the main ingredients in Amok Trey?

Key ingredients include fish, coconut milk, lemongrass, garlic, shrimp paste, turmeric, and chilies.

How long does Amok Trey take to make?

It takes approximately 85-110 minutes to prepare and cook Amok Trey.

What do you serve with Amok Trey?

Amok Trey is best served with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles, and can be accompanied by fresh herbs and salad.

Amok Trey