Ingredient appreciation — what makes Banh Chiao special

What sets Banh Chiao apart is the handling of fresh turmeric. In lesser versions this is treated as a background note. Here it's central and the fresh with lemongrass result shows it. I've started buying it to cook with at home after this experience.

prahok is a uniquely Cambodian ingredient that foreigners find challenging but locals consider essential. The a Siem Reap market food stall atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had fresh coconut water as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Banh Chiao is the place to start.