On the long white beaches of Sihanoukville, yoke-basket women trudge across the hot, blinding sand, their silhouettes etched against the shimmering sea. These woman shield their faces from the tropical sun with palm hats and their limbs with long-sleeve blouses and pants. They look as if they have just walked out of the rice paddies. Scintillating aromas of grilled squids waft from their swaying baskets. They are the humble purveyors of the tastiest morsels in Cambodia.
The squids they sell have been caught fresh just off shore that morning. By noon, these women are trudging along the beach barbecuing little kebabs for beach-goers. You don’t even have to move from your relaxing spot on the beach when the hunger pangs hit as there is always a Squid vendor close at hand.
The squids are simple but very tasty. There is no preparation to speak of, the women simply skewer them whole—tentacles, arms, beak, and gut, full with the sea’s brininess—on bamboo sticks. They baste them with a sweet-spicy-sour sauce, and grill them over coals. Served with a side of a salt, pepper and lemon mix that you dip the squid into.
Sihanoukville is definitely a stellar seafood destination. Other places might have greater varieties of seafood, even at lower prices, but I’ve found no vendors, anywhere, like the Sihanoukville vendors. I would go back to Sihanoukville just for the tasty squid!!
Janaline's world journey 
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That looks fabulous! Business must have been brisk! 🙂
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If you waited until mid morning for a snack there would be nothing left!
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I miss eating grilled squid.
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Its fabulous, it was even better than the grilled crab that some ladies walked around selling!
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The squids look so…tempting! Sigh! 🙂
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Still looking for a place here in SA where I can get barbecued squid.
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That squid sounds delicious!
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It was and there was crab that was actually just as delicious.
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Just take some money along with you.
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I agree Bebs. And as night falls you can relax further with a lovely cocktail!
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Sihanoukville is really a great little beach side destination! Thanks for sharing!
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You’re welcome! A lot of people don’t know about this little hidden gem!
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Beautiful! I love grilled squid! I had some fantastic grilled squid in a small restaurant in Milos, Greece, almost five years ago. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! 🙂
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I havent found a place that serves fresh squid like these ladies…I would go back just for the squid!
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I’m not usually a great fan of squid, but I think I’d give it a go here!
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It is definitely worth the risk Kathy!! Fresh and oh so tasty!
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Fresh grilled squids… 🙂 I won’t mind exploring this beach….
Hope you had a great time, Janaline 🙂
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I had a fabulous time, thanks Sreejith!! It was such a relaxing holiday!!
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