Cambodian Fish Amok Stir Fry
I still remember the first time I had Cambodian Fish Amok Stir Fry at a small restaurant in Phnom Penh. The combination of tender fish, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic spices was love at first bite. Since then, I've been on a mission to recreate this dish in my own kitchen, and I'm excited to share my recipe with you.
Cambodian Fish Amok Stir Fry is a popular dish in Cambodia, and its name 'amok' refers to the process of steaming food in banana leaves. However, in this recipe, we'll be using a stir-fry method to achieve a similar flavor and texture. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves Asian cuisine and wants to try something new and exciting.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it's relatively easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. You can find most of the ingredients at your local Asian market or well-stocked supermarket. The key to making a great Fish Amok Stir Fry is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the fish and coconut milk.
In this recipe, we'll be using cod fish, but you can also use other types of white fish such as tilapia or catfish. The fish is marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, lime juice, and spices, which gives it a nice flavor and texture. The coconut milk adds a rich and creamy element to the dish, while the spices and herbs provide a nice aroma and flavor.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You can serve it with steamed rice or noodles, and it's also great with some fresh vegetables or a salad. So, let's get started and make some delicious Cambodian Fish Amok Stir Fry!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
- It's a great way to experience the flavors of Cambodian cuisine
- The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion
- It's a healthy and nutritious meal option
- It's a great way to use up leftover fish and vegetables
- The recipe can be customized to suit your taste preferences
Why This Recipe Works
The key to making a great Cambodian Fish Amok Stir Fry is to use a combination of high heat and quick stir-frying. This helps to preserve the texture of the fish and the vegetables, while also creating a nice caramelized flavor. The coconut milk adds a rich and creamy element to the dish, while the spices and herbs provide a nice aroma and flavor.
Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of layers of flavor. We start by marinating the fish in a mixture of fish sauce, lime juice, and spices, which gives it a nice flavor and texture. Then, we add the coconut milk and the spices, which adds a rich and creamy element to the dish. Finally, we add some fresh herbs and chilies, which provides a nice aroma and flavor.
The type of pan used is also important in this recipe. A wok or a large skillet with a non-stick surface is ideal, as it allows for quick and easy stir-frying. The pan should be heated to a high temperature before adding the ingredients, which helps to create a nice caramelized flavor.
Overall, the combination of high heat, quick stir-frying, and layers of flavor makes this recipe a success. The dish is not only delicious, but it's also relatively easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients used in this recipe are relatively simple and easy to find. The key is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the fish and coconut milk. You can find most of the ingredients at your local Asian market or well-stocked supermarket.
Some of the ingredients, such as the fish sauce and the lime leaves, may be harder to find. However, you can substitute them with other ingredients or omit them if you can't find them. The most important thing is to use ingredients that you like and that are fresh and of high quality.
- 1 lb (450g) cod fish, cut into bite-sized piecesYou can use other types of white fish such as tilapia or catfish. Make sure to choose fresh and sustainable fish.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauceFish sauce is a common ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine. It has a strong umami flavor and is used to add depth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon lime juiceLime juice adds a nice acidity to the dish and helps to balance the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in many Asian dishes. It adds a nice flavor and aroma to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon grated gingerGinger adds a nice warmth and depth to the dish. Make sure to use fresh ginger for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oilCoconut oil is a healthy and flavorful oil that is perfect for stir-frying. It has a high smoke point and a nice coconut flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milkCoconut milk is a rich and creamy ingredient that adds a nice texture to the dish. Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cuminCumin adds a nice warmth and depth to the dish. It's a common ingredient in many Asian dishes.
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powderTurmeric adds a nice yellow color and a warm, slightly bitter flavor to the dish. It's a common ingredient in many Asian dishes.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprikaPaprika adds a nice smoky flavor to the dish. It's a common ingredient in many Asian dishes.
- Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are used to season the dish and bring out the flavors. Make sure to use high-quality salt and pepper for the best flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Cambodian Fish Amok Stir Fry
- 1Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 2Add the fish pieces to the skillet and stir-fry until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C), about 3-4 minutes. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
- 3In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Add the ground cumin, turmeric powder, and paprika, and stir-fry for 1 minute.
- 4Add the coconut milk to the skillet and stir to combine with the spices. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
- 5Add the fish pieces back to the skillet and stir to combine with the coconut milk mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the fish is coated in the sauce.
- 6Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice.
- 7Transfer the dish to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil.
- 8Serve the dish hot, with steamed rice or noodles on the side.
- 9Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- 10Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish, to ensure that it has reached a safe internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).
- 11Stir-fry the dish quickly and constantly, to prevent the ingredients from burning or sticking to the pan.
- 12Add the ingredients to the skillet in the correct order, to ensure that the dish is cooked evenly and that the flavors are balanced.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the fish and coconut milk.
- Don't overcook the fish, as it can become dry and tough.
- Adjust the amount of spices and seasonings to taste.
- Use a large skillet or wok to cook the dish, as it allows for quick and easy stir-frying.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet, as it can prevent the ingredients from cooking evenly.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil, for a nice flavor and aroma.
- Serve the dish with steamed rice or noodles, for a filling and satisfying meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the fish, which can make it dry and tough.
- Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Not adjusting the amount of spices and seasonings to taste, which can make the dish too spicy or too bland.
- Overcrowding the skillet, which can prevent the ingredients from cooking evenly.
- Not letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, which can prevent the flavors from melding together.
- Not using a large skillet or wok, which can make it difficult to stir-fry the ingredients quickly and evenly.
Variations and Substitutions
- Using different types of fish, such as tilapia or catfish.
- Adding other ingredients, such as bell peppers or snow peas, to the stir-fry.
- Using different types of oil, such as vegetable or peanut oil, for stir-frying.
- Adding a splash of citrus juice, such as lemon or lime, for a nice acidity.
- Using different types of spices and seasonings, such as cumin or coriander, for a unique flavor.
- Serving the dish with different types of noodles or rice, such as brown rice or udon noodles.
- Adding some heat to the dish, with ingredients such as chili peppers or sriracha sauce.
What to Serve With Cambodian Fish Amok Stir Fry
This dish is perfect for serving with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with some fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers or snow peas, for a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
Some other options for serving this dish include serving it with a side of fried rice, or using it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. You can also serve it with some fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil, for a nice flavor and aroma.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.
To reheat, simply microwave the dish for 1-2 minutes, or heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also add some fresh herbs or spices to the dish, to give it a nice flavor and aroma.
It's also a good idea to label the container with the date and the contents, so you can easily keep track of how long it's been stored. You can also use a vacuum sealer or a freezer bag, to prevent the dish from drying out or getting freezer burn.
When reheating, make sure to heat the dish to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C), to ensure food safety. You can use an instant-read thermometer, to check the internal temperature of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of fish is best for this recipe?
You can use any type of white fish, such as cod, tilapia, or catfish. Make sure to choose fresh and sustainable fish.
Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, you can use frozen fish, but make sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels before using.
What is fish sauce and where can I find it?
Fish sauce is a common ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine. It has a strong umami flavor and is used to add depth to the dish. You can find fish sauce at most Asian markets or well-stocked supermarkets.
Can I substitute coconut milk with other ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with other ingredients, such as yogurt or cream. However, keep in mind that the dish may not have the same flavor and texture.
How do I store and reheat this dish?
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave the dish for 1-2 minutes, or heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
You can try adding different ingredients, such as bell peppers or snow peas, to the stir-fry. You can also use different types of oil, such as vegetable or peanut oil, for stir-frying. Additionally, you can add a splash of citrus juice, such as lemon or lime, for a nice acidity.
Is this dish spicy?
This dish is not spicy, but you can add some heat to it by using ingredients such as chili peppers or sriracha sauce.
Can I serve this dish with other types of noodles or rice?
Yes, you can serve this dish with other types of noodles or rice, such as brown rice or udon noodles.

Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) cod fish, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the fish pieces to the skillet and stir-fry until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C), about 3-4 minutes. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Add the ground cumin, turmeric powder, and paprika, and stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Add the coconut milk to the skillet and stir to combine with the spices. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
- Add the fish pieces back to the skillet and stir to combine with the coconut milk mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the fish is coated in the sauce.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice.
- Transfer the dish to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil.
- Serve the dish hot, with steamed rice or noodles on the side.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish, to ensure that it has reached a safe internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).
- Stir-fry the dish quickly and constantly, to prevent the ingredients from burning or sticking to the pan.
- Add the ingredients to the skillet in the correct order, to ensure that the dish is cooked evenly and that the flavors are balanced.