Samlar Kari is a traditional Cambodian curry made with marinated meat, aromatic spices, and a rich sauce.

How long does Samlar Kari take to make?

The total time to make Samlar Kari is approximately 80-110 minutes.

Samlar Kari Recipe – Cambodia's Flavorful Curry

Name: Samlar Kari
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Cambodia
Ingredients: beef broth; beef cut into bite sized pieces; brown sugar; carrots; chicken; cilantro for garnish; cloves garlic; coconut milk; curry powder; cut into chunks; fish sauce; for the curry; for the marinade; g chicken; green beans; onion; palm sugar; potatoes; soy sauce; sugar; tamarind paste; thumb sized piece of ginger; tomato; turmeric powder; vegetable oil

Golden turmeric and warming curry powder perfume a creamy coconut broth studded with meat and potatoes. Samlar Kari emerged in Cambodian kitchens as families developed their own spice blends. Long simmering builds layers of flavor—ginger, garlic, and fish sauce creating complex depth.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

For the Curry:
500 g chicken (or beef), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon turmeric powder
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup coconut milk
2 cups chicken or beef broth
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped
1 tablespoon tamarind paste (optional)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Marinade:
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

Marinate the Meat

In a bowl, combine the curry powder, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar.

Add the chicken (or beef) pieces and mix well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for better flavor.

Prepare the Curry

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the marinated meat and cook until browned on all sides.

Sprinkle in the curry powder and turmeric powder, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or beef broth. Bring to a simmer.

Add the potatoes, carrots, and green beans. Stir well and let the curry simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.

Stir in the chopped tomato and tamarind paste (if using). Adjust seasoning with additional fish sauce or sugar if needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Samlar Kari?

Samlar Kari is Cambodia's coconut curry, blending turmeric, curry powder, and aromatic spices with tender meat and vegetables. A soul-warming dish that defines Cambodian comfort cooking.

Where does Samlar Kari come from?

This curry is deeply rooted in Cambodian households and markets, particularly popular as a slow-cooked main dish shared at family tables throughout the country.

What are the main ingredients in Samlar Kari?

Chicken or beef, onion, garlic, fresh ginger, curry powder, turmeric, fish sauce, palm sugar, potatoes, carrots, and green beans create the hearty curry.

Any tips for making the best Samlar Kari?

Marinate meat for extra flavor. Toast spices gently to deepen their complexity. Don't rush the simmering—long, slow cooking melds flavors. Adjust fish sauce and sugar for balance.

What do you serve with Samlar Kari?

Serve over steamed jasmine or white rice to soak up the rich coconut broth. Fresh herbs and lime wedges offer bright contrast to the warm spice.

Samlar Kari