Quirky Foodster

Sides

Trosak Ktis

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
10 min
Prep
5 min
Cook

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Ingredients

  • - 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • - 100 ml (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp) coconut milk
  • - 1 tbsp (15 g) palm sugar
  • - 1 tbsp (15 ml) fish sauce
  • - 2 tbsp (20 g) roasted peanuts, crushed
  • - 1 shallot, thinly sliced
  • - 1 Thai chili, sliced (optional)
  • - 1 tbsp (15 ml) lime juice

Method

  1. In a small saucepan, warm the coconut milk, palm sugar and fish sauce over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
  2. Stir in the lime juice.
  3. Arrange the sliced cucumber on a serving plate.
  4. Pour the coconut dressing over the cucumber.
  5. Scatter with crushed peanuts, sliced shallot and chili, if using.
  6. Serve immediately or chilled.

Introduction: Trosak Ktis is a cooling side dish of sliced cucumber dressed in a lightly sweetened coconut and roasted peanut sauce, served alongside richer grilled and curried mains to balance the meal.

Cultural Background: Trosak Ktis is a cooling side dish of sliced cucumber dressed in a lightly sweetened coconut and roasted peanut sauce, served alongside richer grilled and curried mains to balance the meal. Its simplicity and short preparation time make it a common last-minute addition to a Khmer family spread.

Tips: Salt the sliced cucumber lightly and let it sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry, to prevent a watery salad. Warm the dressing only gently — it should stay pourable, not thick and set.

Variations: Shredded green mango can be mixed in for extra crunch and tartness. A drizzle of tamarind syrup can be added for a more layered sour note. Already vegetarian if fish sauce is replaced with soy sauce; naturally suited to a fully plant-based version.

Storage: Store dressing separately from cucumber in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; combine just before serving.

Reheating: Not applicable — served cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 110 kcal, 3 g protein, 7 g fat, 10 g carbohydrate, 1 g fibre, 340 mg sodium.

FAQs:

Q: Can this be made ahead?
A: The dressing can be made a day ahead, but dress the cucumber just before serving to keep it crisp.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: Only mildly if chili is added — it can easily be left out for a completely mild side.