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History & gastronomy: Discover the ancient flavors of the Khmer Empire

Writer's picture: Coin gourmandCoin gourmand

What were the eating habits of the Khmers in the 9th century? During the period of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century, the population’s diet was in constant evolution, reflecting the vitality of the civilization itself.

Sculptures representing the communal kitchen of a village, Bayon temple, Khmer Empire, 12th century AD
Sculptures representing the communal kitchen of a village, Bayon temple, Khmer Empire, 12th century AD

The Khmer Empire was renowned for its sophisticated irrigation systems and vast trading networks. Its privileged geographical location also contributed to the emergence of a diverse culinary landscape, reflecting the multicultural influences of this ancient power.

Staple foods

In the Khmer diet, rice and fish played a predominant role, forming what could be described as the ‘backbone’ of this historic diet. Rice, in particular, was cultivated using sophisticated hydraulic techniques, resulting in several harvests a year. In addition, the abundance of freshwater fish, particularly from the waterways and imperial fisheries, testified to the richness of the region’s fishery resources.

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