Num Bot Recipe – Traditional Cambodian Rice Flour Dumplings
Num Bot (នំបត់) is a classic Cambodian snack made from rice flour dough filled with seasoned meat, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed until tender. Soft, savory, and aromatic, Num Bot is commonly sold by street vendors and enjoyed as a light meal or afternoon snack across Cambodia.
This traditional dumpling highlights the Khmer culinary preference for subtle seasoning, natural aromatics, and steamed cooking methods.
What Is Num Bot?
Num Bot is a steamed Cambodian dumpling prepared from rice flour dough and filled with pork, garlic, and spices. The dumplings are shaped by hand, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed, allowing the dough to become slightly chewy while absorbing the aroma of the leaves.
Unlike fried snacks, Num Bot is light, clean in flavor, and easy to digest.
Cultural Role of Num Bot in Cambodian Food Culture
Num Bot is closely associated with:
- Street food stalls
- Traditional markets
- School snacks
- Home cooking
It is especially popular in the morning or late afternoon, often served warm and eaten by hand. The dish reflects the everyday nature of Cambodian cuisine, where simple ingredients are transformed into comforting food.
Key Ingredients in Num Bot
Authentic Num Bot relies on:
- Rice flour
- Pork (or chicken)
- Garlic
- Shallots
- Fish sauce
- Black pepper
- Banana leaves
Each ingredient is used sparingly to maintain balance and avoid overpowering the delicate dough.
Flavor Profile and Texture
Well-made Num Bot is:
- Soft and slightly chewy
- Mildly savory
- Fragrant from banana leaves
- Juicy inside without being greasy
The filling should complement the dough rather than dominate it.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Num Bot
Ingredients (Makes 12–15 dumplings)
- 250 g rice flour
- 180–200 ml warm water
- 250 g ground pork
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- ½ tsp sugar
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- Banana leaves, softened
- Cooking oil for greasing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Mix rice flour with warm water gradually until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead until smooth and cover to rest.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Combine ground pork, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Prepare Banana Leaves
Pass banana leaves over heat to soften. Lightly oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Shape the Dumplings
Take a small portion of dough, flatten it, add filling, and fold to seal.
Step 5: Wrap in Banana Leaves
Wrap each dumpling snugly in banana leaves, folding into small parcels.
Step 6: Steam
Place dumplings in a steamer and cook for 15–20 minutes until firm and cooked through.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let rest briefly before unwrapping and serving warm.
How to Serve Num Bot
Num Bot is commonly served:
- Warm, straight from the steamer
- With fresh herbs or pickled vegetables
- As a snack or light meal
Some enjoy it with a light dipping sauce, though traditionally it is eaten plain.
Tips for Authentic Num Bot
- Do not overfill the dumplings
- Seal dough completely to prevent leakage
- Use fresh banana leaves for best aroma
- Steam over gentle heat for even cooking
Variations of Num Bot
- Num Bot Sach Moan – chicken filling
- Vegetarian Num Bot – mushroom and tofu filling
- Mini Num Bot – bite-sized versions for snacks
Why Num Bot Remains a Cambodian Favorite
Num Bot continues to be loved because it is comforting, affordable, and deeply rooted in everyday Khmer life. Its soft texture and gentle flavors make it accessible to all ages, while its preparation preserves traditional cooking methods.
Learning to make Num Bot offers insight into Cambodia’s rich street food heritage and home-style cooking.
