How to Cook Khmer Cha Trokun?

If there's one Khmer dish that we keep on requesting every week is this easy fried vegetables "Cha Trokun" (Cha - means stir fry & Trokun - Water spinach) aside from Singaw chiru. I learned this easy dish while doing my mission work in Kratie province way back 2007. Sreymom, my lovely student taught me how to cook it. Her version has much kick of spiciness, the version I cook at home is mild because of my son. I'm glad David likes to eat this simple dish as well. He loves the crunch of the fresh greens and the flavorful sauce. He especially enjoys dipping it in a simple sauce made of salt, pepper, and lime – a touch of French influence in Cambodian cuisine.

I'm not good at cooking, but it has always been a comforting activity for me if I make it at home. It’s more than just making food. It’s an act of love, a chance to create memories, and sometimes, a way to teach David about faith. Just as I learned to cook from Sreymom, I hope to pass on not just recipes but also values like patience, gratitude, and faith.

Learning to Trust in God’s Promise

Isaiah 43:2 reminds me that no matter what we go through, God is with us. Whether it’s a busy day, a family misunderstanding, or a challenging situation, I know I am not alone. And just like I have to trust that the water spinach will cook perfectly without becoming soggy, I also need to trust God’s timing and faithfulness in my life.

Sharing to you this easy and delicious recipe of Cha Trokun (Stir-Fried Water Spinach/Kangkong) we cook at home.

Ingredients:

• 20 stems of water spinach (Trokun), cut into 1-inch pieces (about 4-5 cups)

• 8 oz minced pork, shrimp, chicken, or tofu (optional)

• 2 tbsp oyster sauce

• 2 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce

• 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

4 Easy Steps to Cook:

1. Heat oil in a hot wok and sauté the garlic until golden brown.

2. Add the protein of your choice (pork, shrimp, chicken, or tofu) and cook until it is no longer pink.

3. Add the water spinach stems first, cook until tender, then stir in the leaves. Season with fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Mix well.

4. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Serve hot with a dipping sauce of salt, pepper, and lime.

Cooking and Faith – The Connection

As I cook this simple dish, I am reminded of how God sustains us. Just like how the water spinach quickly softens in the heat, our hearts can also be softened by God’s love, even in the toughest times. Each meal prepared is an opportunity to serve and show love to my family.

A Simple Prayer: 

Dear Lord, 

Thank You for Your promise that You are with me through every situation. Help me trust You more, especially when life feels overwhelming. Let my actions and words reflect Your love to my family. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

**

If you ever feel overwhelmed, remember God is with you. Whether it’s in the chaos of the kitchen, the ups and downs of motherhood, or the quiet moments when you feel uncertain, He is there. 

Let your faith be the secret ingredient that adds joy and peace to everything you do.

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