Porridge is a liquid food made by boiling rice. It is also a simple dish that holds great value in the daily lives of Cambodian people. Porridge is easy to digest, easy to prepare, and can be eaten at any time, especially in the morning or when someone is feeling unwell. Cambodian porridge comes in many varieties, such as mixed porridge, plain porridge, chicken porridge, fish porridge, and pork porridge. These dishes are delicious and have a fragrant aroma from various spices. Since rice is a staple food in Cambodia, porridge has a long history within Cambodian agricultural society. It was developed as a practical way to make good use of rice and provide a suitable meal for families. When someone is sick or elderly, porridge is often chosen because it is soft, easy to eat, and provides energy.
Fish: 1 lb (450g) firm white fish (like cod, catfish, or snapper), cut into bite-sized pieces
Coconut Milk/Cream: 1 cup thick coconut milk (divided)
Eggs: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Fish Sauce: 1.5 tablespoons
Palm Sugar: 1 tablespoon (or brown sugar)
Shrimp Paste: 1 teaspoon (or prahok if available)
Greens: Non-toxic banana leaves (to make small cups) or ramekins lined with non-stick paper, plus a few leaves of noni, Chinese broccoli, or Thai basil
for the base
Garnish: Kaffir lime leaves (shredded thin) and fresh red chilies
First, soak the dried mushrooms and thoroughly wash all the other ingredients, including the chicken, fish, pork bones for the soup stock, and vegetables.
Add the fried rice to the soup pot, followed by the straw mushrooms. Simmer until the rice becomes soft and expands.
Cut or slice them according to your preference. Next, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the soup seasoning cube, pork bones, chicken, and carrot.
Finally, add the onion and adjust the seasoning to taste. When serving, place bean sprouts in a bowl first, then ladle the hot porridge over them. Add cilantro, fried garlic, and sweet soy sauce.
Simmer for a while, then add the soaked dried mushrooms. Season with salt, sugar, and fish sauce.
For those who enjoy spicy food, fresh chili can also be added.
Wash the rice and drain it well. In another pan, fry some garlic, then add the washed rice and stir-fry briefly.
Delicious porridge should have a moderately thick consistency not too watery and not too thick.
