Prahok Ktis
A rich and savory Cambodian dip made with ground pork, fermented fish paste (prahok), coconut milk, and aromatic kroeung. It's typically served with fresh vegetables for dipping.
🧂 Ingredients
- 450 g Ground pork
- 2 tbsp Prahok (fermented fish paste)(adjust to taste)
- 3 tbsp Kroeung (lemongrass paste)
- 200 ml Coconut milk
- 2 tbsp Red bell pepper paste(or paprika for color)
- 1 tbsp Palm sugar(or granulated sugar)
- 1 tsp Fish sauce(optional, for added saltiness)
- 0.5 cup Pea eggplants(optional)
- 3 leaves Kaffir lime leaves(thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic(thinly sliced, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- Fresh vegetables(for serving (e.g., cucumber, carrots, cabbage, long beans))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a pot or wok over medium heat. Add the kroeung paste and red bell pepper paste (or paprika) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 2
Add the ground pork to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Stir in the prahok, palm sugar, fish sauce (if using), and pea eggplants (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring well.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk and add the thinly sliced kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded.
💡 Tip: Ensure the heat is low enough to prevent the coconut milk from splitting. - 5
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The dip should be savory, slightly sweet, and have a distinct umami flavor from the prahok.
💡 Tip: If the dip is too thick, add a little more coconut milk or water. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. - 6
Transfer the Prahok Ktis to a serving bowl. Garnish with thinly sliced garlic and serve hot with an assortment of fresh vegetables for dipping.
💡 Tip: Serve with rice or rice crackers as well.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Prahok can have a very strong smell and taste; start with the smaller amount and add more if desired.
- ✓If you cannot find kroeung paste, you can make your own by pounding lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and shallots.
- ✓Ensure you use good quality coconut milk for a creamy texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.
- Some recipes include a small amount of minced shrimp.