Kroeung (Cambodian spice Paste Made to order

The ingredients of Kroeung are:

Lemongrass stalk (Khmer: ស្លឹកគ្រៃ), Turmeric (Khmer: រមៀត), Shallot, Garlic, Galangal (Khmer: រំដេង)

These ingredients require some advance preparation prior to pounding into this specific kroeung. The lemongrass stalks need to be thinly sliced and fresh galangal should be diced. If fresh or brine-soaked turmeric is used, it must be diced as well. Kaffir lime zest must be sliced into thin strips and Kaffir lime leaves require deveining and thinly chopping. The ingredients are then added to the mortar and pounded, usually lime zest/leaves first until smooth, then chili, lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric. Lastly, the garlic and shallots are added.