A Little Coconut Treat Everyone Loves
If you spend any time wandering Cambodian markets, sooner or later you’ll run into the smell of warm coconut drifting through the air. Follow it and you’ll probably find a vendor making Nom Krok on a simple roadside cart.
Nom Krok are small coconut rice cakes. They come warm, soft in the middle and a bit crispy around the edges. The batter is just rice flour and coconut milk, sometimes with a pinch of chopped green onion for a hint of savory flavor. They’re cooked in a special round pan with tiny half-moon molds, a bit like the ones used for Japanese takoyaki or Danish aebleskiver. Normally, you eat these with some light fish sauce and coconut cream.
The Perfect Evening Street Snack
You’ll spot Nom Krok vendors both in the morning and evening, but they’re definitely more popular in the evening. Most locals don’t really have them for breakfast, they’re more of a treat you grab as a snack before dinner or something to share while you walk through the market. It’s like a little appetizer that warms you up for a bigger meal.
What It Tastes Like
They’re not too sweet, just rich with coconut and lightly toasted outside. When they’re fresh, they’re warm and creamy inside with a soft chew that makes you reach for another right away.
Where to Try Nom Krok
If you’re visiting Cambodia, keep an eye out at wet markets or busy street corners. You won’t need directions, your nose will lead you to them. Grab a bag, find a spot to sit, and snack like a local. It’s a tiny taste of Cambodian street food that’s simple, delicious, and unforgettable.
Photo: Sokunthea In