Ingredient guide
Kroeung
Kroeung is a Cambodian aromatic paste, traditionally pounded, that adds a fragrant base to soups, curries, steamed dishes and marinades.
Documented versions use different combinations of lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, lime leaf, garlic, shallot and other roots or seasonings. There is no single ingredient list for every kroeung, so follow the version tied to the dish you are making. Slice fibrous stalks and roots thinly before pounding so they break down more easily.
Food context
Countries: Cambodia
Cuisines: Khmer cuisine
Used in dishes
Used in recipes
Sources
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Cambodian Kroeung Recipe
, Chef Nak
— https://www.chefnak.com/cambodian-kroeung (accessed 2026-10-08)— Describes kroeung as a Cambodian paste for soups, curries, steamed dishes and marinades, with lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, lime, garlic and shallots. -
How to Make Khmer Lemongrass Paste
, Cambodianess
— https://cambodianess.com/article/how-to-make-khmer-lemongrass-paste (published 2021-03-22) (accessed 2026-10-08)— Documents one Khmer lemongrass paste version with a different combination of aromatics, demonstrating recipe-level variation.