Cambodia Investment Review
Renowned culinary artist Chef Nak, also known as Rotanak Ros, is spearheading a movement to elevate traditional Cambodian cuisine and culture to international prominence. In episode 132 of the “Rising Giants” podcast, hosted by Max and Dom, Chef Nak shared insights into her journey, recent accomplishments, and future aspirations.
Chef Nak’s second cookbook, “SAOY, Royal Cambodian Home Cuisine,” was recently honored with the title of ‘The Best Cookbook In The World’ by the prestigious Gourmand Award in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on November 28, 2023. This accolade, often likened to the ‘Oscars’ of the food industry, is a testament to the book’s unique blend of culinary artistry and cultural storytelling.
“The award for best in the world is completely amazing and unexpected,” Chef Nak expressed. “It is a team effort and a reflection of the resurgence of Khmer food and culture. This recognition shows that Cambodians can achieve great things. We received significant financial support to attend the event, which was crucial in making this achievement possible.”
The SAOY Cookbook Goes Beyond Just Dishes
When asked about the judging process and what made her cookbook stand out, Chef Nak highlighted the depth and thoughtfulness behind its creation. “We considered every angle of a cookbook, from design to the cultural stories behind each recipe. The judges appreciated that our book goes beyond just dishes, offering a comprehensive experience of Cambodian cuisine and its history. This pride in our cultural heritage is something we wanted to convey.”
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The podcast also delved into the making of “SAOY: Royal Cambodian Home Cuisine.” Chef Nak described the process, starting from the ideation stage, which was influenced by her personal experiences and those of private chefs who have served the royal family. “We researched each dish extensively and aimed to educate the world about Cambodian cuisine. We want to shift the narrative from past negative stories to showcasing the positive aspects and opportunities in our country, both in the business and culinary sectors.”
Since winning the award, there has been a surge in the book’s sales, driven primarily by organic marketing efforts. Chef Nak emphasized the importance of community-oriented marketing. “Our goal is not just to sell books but to inspire Cambodian food bloggers and grow the culinary ecosystem. Cambodian food is evolving from mere sustenance to an aesthetic experience that appeals to modern tastes.”
A Business Model That Revitalizes Old-Style Homes
In addition to her culinary achievements, Chef Nak has successfully launched a luxury homestay that offers an immersive experience in traditional Cambodian architecture and flavors. “The idea was to create a business model that revitalizes old-style homes on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, blending traditional Cambodian living with modern amenities,” Chef Nak explained. “This approach has attracted international high-end tour groups, boosting demand for this unique cultural experience.”
Max and Dom also asked Chef Nak about her new homestay experience. She shared that the idea was to make old-style homes, which many Cambodians had abandoned for newer styles of living, into livable spaces that blend the new with the traditional.
“Many who grew up in wooden homes disliked them because they weren’t nice. Now, we can blend the new style with old traditional Cambodian living, and the two can work together with pride for the home,” Chef Nak said. The project has attracted international high-end tour groups, enhancing demand for the unique cultural experience it offers.
Expanding Our Reach To The International Community
Looking ahead to 2024 and 2025, Chef Nak has set ambitious goals. “One of our main objectives is to expand our reach to the international community and enhance our communication with fans through traditional media and new content channels. It is crucial to sustain our efforts and ensure that our projects are financially viable,” she noted.
Reflecting on her long-term vision, Chef Nak emphasized the importance of contributing to Cambodia’s development. “Cambodia needs strong individuals to help the country reach its full potential. By bringing back the opportunities and ideas we’ve experienced overseas, we can drive positive change and growth in our homeland.”
Chef Nak’s dedication to preserving and promoting Cambodian cuisine and culture continues to inspire pride and admiration both within the Kingdom and beyond. Her work not only showcases the rich heritage of Cambodian food but also opens new avenues for cultural and culinary exchange on a global scale.
