Samlor Kor Moan (Cambodian Chicken and Coconut Stew)
A rich and fragrant chicken stew made with coconut milk, lemongrass, turmeric, and a medley of vegetables, offering a comforting and flavorful Cambodian experience.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Chicken thighs(bone-in, cut into pieces)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 200 ml Chicken broth
- 2 stalks Lemongrass stalks(bruised and roughly chopped)
- 1 inch piece Galangal(thinly sliced)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 2 medium Shallots(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 leaves Kaffir lime leaves(torn)
- 2 tbsp Fish sauce
- 1 tsp Palm sugar(or brown sugar)
- 100 g Long beans(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 1/2 medium Eggplant(cubed)
- 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves(for garnish)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- 2
Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Stir in the turmeric powder and cook for another minute.
- 3
Add the bruised lemongrass, sliced galangal, and torn kaffir lime leaves to the pot. Stir well.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
- 5
Add the long beans and eggplant to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- 6
Season the stew with fish sauce and palm sugar. Stir well and taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- 7
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh Thai basil leaves. Serve hot, typically with rice.
💡 Tip: This dish is best enjoyed with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the rich sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure you use full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor and texture.
- ✓Bruising the lemongrass helps release its aromatic oils.
- ✓Adjust the amount of fish sauce and palm sugar to achieve your desired balance of salty and sweet.
🔄 Variations
- Add cubed potatoes or sweet potatoes along with the other vegetables.
- For a spicier version, add a few sliced red chilies with the aromatics.
- Substitute chicken with firm tofu or firm white fish for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.