Cha Kroeung Sach Moan Recipe – Cambodian Lemongrass Chicken Stir-Fry
Cha Kroeung Sach Moan (ឆាគ្រឿងសាច់មាន់) is a classic Cambodian stir-fry that perfectly captures the essence of Khmer home cooking. This aromatic dish features chicken stir-fried with kroeung, Cambodia’s signature lemongrass-based spice paste, resulting in a meal that is fragrant, savory, and deeply satisfying without being overly spicy.
Commonly served in Cambodian households and local restaurants, Cha Kroeung Sach Moan highlights the Khmer approach to flavor fresh aromatics, balanced seasoning, and simple cooking techniques that allow each ingredient to shine.
What Is Cha Kroeung Sach Moan?
Cha Kroeung Sach Moan translates to “stir-fried chicken with kroeung.” Kroeung is a foundational Khmer spice paste made from lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, garlic, and kaffir lime leaves. When sautéed, kroeung releases an intense aroma that defines many Cambodian dishes.
Unlike heavy curries, this dish is a dry stir-fry, meaning it is quick to cook and light on sauces. The focus is on the chicken’s tenderness and the herbal complexity of the kroeung paste.
Cultural Significance of the Dish
Cha Kroeung Sach Moan is a staple of everyday Cambodian meals. It is commonly prepared for family lunches or dinners and often paired with steamed jasmine rice and fresh vegetables. The dish reflects Cambodia’s culinary reliance on kroeung as a flavor base, similar to how curry pastes are used in neighboring cuisines.
Because it is quick, nutritious, and adaptable, this dish is frequently cooked in rural homes and urban kitchens alike, making it a true representation of Khmer daily life.
Key Ingredients in Cha Kroeung Sach Moan
Authentic flavor depends on quality aromatics and fresh ingredients:
- Chicken (Sach Moan) – typically thigh or breast, sliced thin
- Kroeung Paste – lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, garlic, shallots, kaffir lime leaves
- Fish Sauce – provides umami depth
- Palm Sugar – balances savory notes
- Vegetable Oil – for stir-frying
- Kaffir Lime Leaves or Basil – optional garnish
- Chili (optional) – for added heat
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Cha Kroeung Sach Moan
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 500 g chicken thigh or breast, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp kroeung paste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1½ tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp palm sugar
- ½ tsp Kampot black pepper
- 2 kaffir lime leaves, finely sliced (optional)
- Fresh basil or vegetables for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken into thin, even pieces to ensure quick and even cooking.
Step 2: Heat the Aromatics
Heat vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the kroeung paste and stir-fry until fragrant and slightly golden.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the sliced chicken to the wok. Stir-fry continuously until the chicken begins to cook through and absorbs the aromatic paste.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Add fish sauce, palm sugar, and Kampot black pepper. Continue stir-frying until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly caramelized.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Stir in sliced kaffir lime leaves if using. Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed jasmine rice and fresh vegetables.
Flavor Profile and Texture
Cha Kroeung Sach Moan offers a fragrant, citrusy aroma from lemongrass, earthy warmth from turmeric, and subtle heat from galangal and pepper. The chicken remains tender, coated in a light, flavorful glaze rather than a heavy sauce.
This balance makes the dish approachable for all palates while remaining deeply authentic.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use fresh kroeung for the most vibrant aroma
- Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper caramelization
- Adjust saltiness by balancing fish sauce and sugar
- Add vegetables like green beans or bell peppers for variation
Why You Should Try Cooking Cha Kroeung Sach Moan
Cooking Cha Kroeung Sach Moan at home is an excellent introduction to Khmer stir-fry techniques and flavor building. It demonstrates how a simple spice paste can transform everyday ingredients into a dish rich with cultural identity.
Whether you are exploring Cambodian cuisine for the first time or deepening your understanding of Southeast Asian cooking, this recipe delivers authentic flavor, simplicity, and comfort in every bite.
