Samlar Machu Kreung – Cambodian Sour Stew

1. 1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
   1 minute
2. 2. Add 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
   5–7 minutes
3. 3. Pour 4 cups water into the pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. 4. Stir in 2 tbsp tamarind paste, 1 tbsp fish sauce, and 1 tsp sugar until fully dissolved, about 1 minute.
   1 minute
5. 5. Add 1 stalk lemongrass and 2 kaffir lime leaves to the pot, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the broth with flavor.
   10 minutes
6. 6. Tip: Bruising the lemongrass before adding helps release its essential oils for a more aromatic stew.
7. 7. Add 1 cup pineapple chunks, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, and 1 cup green beans to the pot, stirring gently to combine.
8. 8. Simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp and the tomatoes start to soften.
   10–12 minutes
9. 9. Tip: Avoid overcooking the vegetables to maintain their vibrant color and texture in the final dish.
10. 10. Stir in 1 Thai chili and simmer for an additional 2 minutes to incorporate the heat.
    2 minutes
11. 11. Tip: Taste the broth and adjust with extra tamarind paste or fish sauce if desired, but do so gradually to avoid overpowering the balance.
12. 12. Remove the pot from heat and discard the lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves before serving.
13. 13. Present the stew hot in bowls, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro.

Cooking notes

When scaling protein-led dishes, weigh the meat rather than counting pieces, and remember that the pan size limits how much you can sear at once.

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When you scale this recipe up or down, remember that cooking time does not scale linearly. A doubled cake takes longer, but not twice as long; a doubled soup takes roughly twice as long. The cooking-time guide gives sensible starting estimates by dish geometry.