Cambodian Jungle Lemongrass from Wok Box features tender chicken and fresh lemongrass cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and herbs, served with vibrant vegetables and jasmine rice, delivering a fragrant and savory Southeast Asian-inspired dish.
Equipments
- Wok
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Rice cooker or pot
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Serving plates or bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 stalks fresh lemongrass
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 medium onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro
- 1 bunch green onions
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh lemongrass is essential for capturing the authentic aromatic flavor in this Cambodian Jungle Lemongrass dish, so try to use fresh stalks rather than dried or powdered forms. Chicken thighs provide a tender, juicy texture that holds up well to the bold spices and coconut milk in the recipe. Fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce combine to create a rich, umami depth, so measure carefully to balance the savory notes without overpowering the dish. Use jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma, which complements the Southeast Asian spices and vegetables perfectly. You can recreate the Cambodian Jungle Lemongrass from Wok Box at home by following this copycat recipe, which mimics their blend of spices, fresh herbs, and vibrant ingredients.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Rinse jasmine rice; cook in rice cooker or pot according to package instructions.
- Trim lemongrass; finely mince only the tender white parts.
- Slice chicken thighs into bite-sized strips.
- Peel and mince garlic and ginger.
- Slice onion, bell peppers, and carrot; cut broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Roughly chop cilantro and green onions for garnish; set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in wok over medium-high heat.
- Add lemongrass, garlic, and ginger to wok; sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Add onion; cook until translucent.
- Add chicken; stir-fry until browned and cooked through.
- Add bell peppers, carrot, and broccoli; stir-fry 3–4 minutes.
- Sprinkle in turmeric, coriander, and chili flakes; stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and coconut milk.
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste; stir to combine.
- Simmer 2–3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp and sauce thickens.
- Serve chicken and vegetables over jasmine rice.
- Garnish with cilantro and green onions.
- Plate and serve hot.
Substitution
Cambodian Jungle Lemongrass from Wok Box copycat menu can be made with chicken breast if thighs are unavailable, though thighs provide more tenderness and flavor. When fresh lemongrass is difficult to source, use 1-2 teaspoons of dried lemongrass powder or substitute with lemon zest combined with a bit of minced ginger for a similar brightness. If you lack fish sauce, a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of lime juice can mimic the umami and tangy notes in the sauce. Your jasmine rice can be replaced with basmati or long-grain rice, but make sure to adjust cooking time and water quantities accordingly. Using a wok enhances even cooking and flavor infusion, but a large skillet works as an alternative if a wok is not available.
Tips
Focus on mincing only the tender white parts of lemongrass to avoid tough, fibrous bites in your dish. Use a wok heated to medium-high for quick, even cooking that preserves the vibrant colors and textures of your vegetables. Ensure chicken strips are bite-sized for uniform cooking and consistent flavor absorption from the spice blend. Taste your sauce before serving to balance the salty fish sauce, sweet sugar, and spicy chili flakes perfectly according to your preference.
Nutritions
Cambodian Jungle Lemongrass offers a nutrient-rich combination of lean protein from chicken thighs and a variety of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, providing essential vitamins A, C, and fiber. The inclusion of lemongrass, ginger, and garlic enhances the dish with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, while coconut milk adds healthy fats and a creamy texture. Seasonings such as fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce contribute sodium and umami flavors, which should be balanced according to your dietary needs. This dish served over jasmine rice delivers a well-rounded meal that supports energy and immune health.
Storage
Store leftover Cambodian Jungle Lemongrass in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days to preserve the tender chicken and vibrant vegetables. When reheating, warm thoroughly in a wok or microwave to retain the dish's signature aromatic flavors.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap chicken thighs with firm tofu or shrimp for different protein options. Replace broccoli with snap peas or baby bok choy to enhance vegetable variety. Use kaffir lime leaves alongside lemongrass to boost aromatic flavors without overpowering the dish. You can also stir-fry the chicken first, then set aside before cooking vegetables to maintain their crispness before combining everything.
Allergies
The Cambodian Jungle Lemongrass dish contains fish sauce and oyster sauce, both of which are common allergens due to their shellfish and fish content. Soy sauce may cause reactions in individuals allergic to soy or gluten if the soy sauce used is not gluten-free. If you have known allergies to shellfish, soy, or gluten, be sure to check ingredient labels carefully or consult with the restaurant before enjoying this flavorful meal.
Why this recipe?
Cambodian Jungle Lemongrass from Wok Box features a vibrant blend of aromatic lemongrass, tender chicken, and authentic Cambodian spices that deliver a unique, flavorful experience. The dish's balance of savory and citrusy notes makes it a memorable choice for those seeking exotic Asian cuisine. You can recreate this crave-worthy meal at home to customize ingredients and enjoy the fresh, zesty taste anytime. Crafting a copycat version allows you to master a popular Wok Box favorite while exploring traditional Cambodian flavors.