A Cultural Family Adventure in Kampot, Cambodia

A Day of Flavors and Discoveries

Today was a sensory explosion, a true immersion into the heart of Kampot's culinary scene. It was a day of contrasts, from the tranquil spice farms to the lively crab markets, and ending with the vibrant tastes of Thailand. I was excited to share these experiences with Hans and Lara, weaving them into the tapestry of our family's Cambodian adventure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tertúlia Restaurant Kampot [i]. The Portuguese flavors were a delightful surprise, a testament to Kampot's diverse culinary influences. I savored the *Salada de Pimentos*, a roasted bell pepper salad with fresh bread, while Hans enjoyed the *Peixe Grelhado*, perfectly smoky sea bass. Lara, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by devouring the *Pastéis de Massa Tenra*, a deep-fried Portuguese meat pie. It was a delicious start to what promised to be a day filled with unique experiences.

After breakfast, we set off for La Plantation, a renowned pepper farm nestled in the countryside. The drive itself was an adventure, a bumpy road winding through lush landscapes. As we arrived, the air was filled with the distinct aroma of pepper, a scent that would linger with us throughout the day. The plantation was beautiful, with pepper plants stretching as far as the eye could see, framed by rolling hills. We joined a guided tour, learning about the history and cultivation of Kampot pepper, a spice celebrated by chefs worldwide. I was fascinated to learn that the different colors of pepper – black, red, and white – all come from the same plant, harvested at different stages of ripeness. Lara was particularly intrigued by the long pepper, which requires coconut leaves for protection from the elements.
The tour concluded with a pepper tasting session, an experience that awakened our palates to the nuances of this exquisite spice. We sampled different varieties, each with its own unique flavor profile – from the intense heat of the black pepper to the delicate sweetness of the red. I even picked up some tips and recipes for cooking with Kampot pepper back home in Dresden. I am already imagining the *Apfelstrudel* with a hint of Kampot pepper, a fusion of my current and former home.

The journey of a spice, from the earth to the palate, is a story of culture, tradition, and the human connection to the land.

Discover the secrets of Kampot pepper at La Plantation, an organic farm offering tours, tastings, and delicious Khmer cuisine in a beautiful setting.

Leaving La Plantation, we headed towards the coast to visit the Kep Crab Market. The market was a vibrant hub of activity, a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. Fishermen unloaded their daily catch, vendors hawked their wares, and the air was thick with the briny scent of the sea. We wandered through the stalls, marveling at the variety of seafood on display – crabs, prawns, squid, and fish of all shapes and sizes.
We chose a selection of fresh crabs and prawns, handing them over to one of the many small restaurants lining the market. The chefs cooked our seafood to perfection, grilling it with Kampot pepper and serving it with a tangy dipping sauce. We sat at a table overlooking the sea, savoring the flavors of our meal while watching the boats bobbing in the water. The crab was incredibly fresh and sweet, the prawns juicy and succulent. Lara, initially hesitant about eating crab, quickly embraced the experience, learning how to crack the shells and extract the tender meat. Hans and I enjoyed watching her enthusiasm, a reminder of the joy of experiencing new things together.

The Kep Crab Market wasn't just about the food; it was about the experience. It was about immersing ourselves in the local culture, witnessing the daily lives of the fishermen and vendors, and connecting with the community. I thought about my childhood in Battambang, about the bustling markets and the vibrant street life, and I felt a sense of connection to my heritage. It was a reminder of the importance of sharing these experiences with Lara, of instilling in her an appreciation for her Cambodian roots.


Discover the freshest seafood and local flavors at Kep Crab Market, a vibrant seafood market in Krong Kaeb, Cambodia.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Kampot, our stomachs full and our hearts content. For dinner, we decided to try Pupe Thai Kitchen, a Thai restaurant known for its authentic flavors. The restaurant was tucked away in a small alley, a cozy and inviting space. The aroma of Thai spices filled the air, a tantalizing prelude to the meal that awaited us.
We ordered a variety of dishes, including green curry, Pad Thai, and spring rolls. The flavors were bold and vibrant, a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. Lara, a big fan of Thai food, devoured the Pad Thai, while Hans and I savored the green curry. I particularly enjoyed the spring rolls, crispy and flavorful, a perfect complement to the other dishes. It was a delightful end to a day filled with culinary adventures. I was so happy to find vegan options, since I try to incorporate more plant based meals into my diet.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Pupe Thai Kitchen in Krong Kampot - where every dish tells a story.

After dinner, we decided to check out ROCKSTAR Kampot, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. While not usually one for late nights, I was curious to experience Kampot's nightlife. The bar was buzzing with activity, music filling the air and people chatting and laughing. We ordered some drinks and soaked in the atmosphere, enjoying the energy of the crowd. It was a fun way to end the day, a chance to unwind and reflect on our experiences. I even met a fellow librarian who was traveling through Southeast Asia, a serendipitous encounter that reminded me of the connections we can make through travel.


Discover the pulse of Kampot's nightlife at ROCKSTAR Kampot, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere await you!

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of today. It was a day of flavors and discoveries, a day that deepened our connection to Kampot and to each other. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Kep further, visiting Kep Beach and Kep National Park. I am excited to see what adventures await us, what new stories we will uncover. And I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you, my readers, in the hope that they inspire you to embark on your own culinary and cultural journeys.

The day was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new things, connecting with different cultures, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I know that the flavors and experiences of Kampot will stay with me long after we leave.