Amok Trey: Calories, Nutrition and Health Benefits
Cambodia's national dish—silky fish mousse steamed in coconut curry with lemongrass, galangal, and aromatic spices.
Quick Nutrition Facts
Per 1 Serving (200g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Omega-3 | 1.2g |
| Vitamin D | 12mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.8mcg |
| Selenium | 36mcg |
Macronutrient Breakdown

NUTRITIONIST INSIGHT
Amok Trey delivers 22g protein with omega-3-rich fish and anti-inflammatory turmeric. The coconut milk provides MCTs for sustained energy while keeping carbs under 10g per serving.
Myth Busters
MYTH #1: Coconut Milk is Too Fattening for Weight Loss
TRUTH: The 18g fat in Amok Trey comes from coconut milk's medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that boost metabolism and promote satiety. MCTs are processed differently than long-chain fats and can actually support fat loss when consumed in moderation.
MYTH #2: Fish Curry is High in Carbs
TRUTH: Traditional Amok Trey contains only 8g carbs per serving—the curry paste uses lemongrass, galangal, and spices instead of starchy thickeners. It's naturally low-carb and keto-friendly when served without rice.
MYTH #3: All Curries Spike Blood Sugar
TRUTH: Amok Trey has minimal impact on blood glucose with 8g carbs and 22g protein. The high protein-to-carb ratio slows glucose absorption, making it safe for diabetics and low-carb diets.
MYTH #4: Steamed Fish Lacks Flavor
TRUTH: Amok's aromatic kroeung paste (lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, kaffir lime) infuses intense flavor without frying. Steaming preserves omega-3 fatty acids that would be lost in high-heat cooking methods.
MYTH #5: You Need Rice to Feel Full
TRUTH: The 22g protein and 18g healthy fats in Amok Trey provide sustained satiety for 3-4 hours without needing rice. Pair with steamed vegetables for added fiber and nutrients.
MYTH #6: Fish from Southeast Asia is Unsafe
TRUTH: When prepared fresh, Southeast Asian fish is nutritious and safe. Choose reputable sources; modern Amok Trey often uses farmed tilapia or barramundi with controlled quality standards.
NutriScore by Health Goals
| Health Goal | NutriScore | Why This Score? |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Loss | ![]() | 280 calories with 22g protein promotes fullness, 8g low carbs support fat burning, omega-3s reduce inflammation. |
| Muscle Gain | ![]() | Excellent 22g complete protein per serving for muscle repair, healthy fats support hormone production. |
| Diabetes Management | ![]() | Only 8g carbs with high protein creates minimal blood sugar impact. MCTs don't spike insulin. |
| PCOS Management | ![]() | Low carb (8g), high protein (22g), anti-inflammatory omega-3s and turmeric support hormone balance. |
| Pregnancy Nutrition | ![]() | Rich in omega-3 DHA for fetal brain development, vitamin D and B12. Ensure fish is well-cooked. |
| Viral/Flu Recovery | ![]() | Easy to digest, 22g protein supports immune function, turmeric and galangal provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds. |
PERSONALIZED NUTRITION
Track your meals with NutriScan for personalized NutriScores based on your specific health goals!
Blood Sugar Response to Amok Trey
Understanding how Amok Trey affects your blood glucose helps you make informed meal decisions.
Typical Glucose Response Curve
*This chart shows typical blood glucose response for general healthy individuals. Individual responses may vary. Not medical advice.*
How to Optimize Blood Sugar
The high protein and healthy fat content naturally moderates blood sugar response:
- 🥒 Steamed vegetables - Adds fiber without extra carbs
- 🥗 Side salad with vinegar dressing - Acetic acid improves insulin sensitivity
- 🫛 Green beans or bok choy - Low-carb vegetable sides
- 🍋 Extra lime juice - Citric acid slows glucose absorption
This combination keeps blood sugar stable for 3-4 hours while providing essential nutrients.
Cultural Significance
Amok Trey is Cambodia's national dish, with roots stretching back to the Khmer Empire (9th-15th century).
In Cambodia:
- Traditionally steamed in banana leaves for aromatic flavor
- Served at weddings, festivals, and special family gatherings
- Symbolizes Khmer culinary heritage and regional pride
- Each family has unique kroeung (curry paste) recipes passed down generations
Traditional Preparation:
- Fish pounded into smooth mousse mixed with coconut cream
- Kroeung paste: lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, kaffir lime, garlic, shallots
- Steamed slowly in banana leaf cups until set like custard
- Often garnished with fresh chili slices and kaffir lime leaves
Global Impact:
- Gaining popularity in fusion restaurants worldwide
- Featured in UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage discussions
- Represents sustainable cooking (uses whole fish, local herbs, minimal waste)
Compare & Substitute
Amok Trey vs Similar Dishes (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | 🐟 Amok Trey | 🍛 Thai Red Curry | 🍲 Indian Fish Curry | 🥘 Tom Yum Soup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal | 180 kcal | 150 kcal | 60 kcal |
| Carbs | 4g | 8g | 6g | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g | 1.5g | 1.2g | 0.8g |
| Protein | 11g | 8g | 12g | 10g |
| Fat | 9g | 12g | 8g | 2g |
| Omega-3 | 0.6g | 0.3g | 0.5g | 0.4g |
| Sodium | 320mg | 480mg | 420mg | 650mg |
| Best For | Low-carb diets | Rich flavor | Protein boost | Low-calorie |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amok Trey good for weight loss?
Yes, Amok Trey supports weight loss with 280 calories per serving, 22g protein that promotes satiety for 3-4 hours, and only 8g carbs fitting low-carb diets. The omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation linked to obesity.
Best practices: Serve with steamed vegetables instead of rice; eat as lunch or dinner; limit to 1 serving per meal; avoid adding extra coconut cream.
Can diabetics eat Amok Trey?
Yes, diabetics can safely eat Amok Trey. With 8g carbs and 22g protein per serving, it creates minimal blood sugar impact. The coconut milk MCTs don't spike insulin like other fats.
Tips for diabetics: Pair with non-starchy vegetables (bok choy, green beans); avoid serving with rice or noodles; monitor blood sugar 2 hours after eating; choose versions with less added sugar in curry paste.
How much protein is in Amok Trey?
One serving of Amok Trey contains 22g of high-quality protein from fish. This provides all essential amino acids for muscle repair, immune function, and satiety; excellent for muscle gain when consumed post-workout.
What are the main health benefits of Amok Trey?
Key Benefits:
- Heart Health: 1.2g omega-3 per serving supports cardiovascular function
- Muscle Maintenance: 22g complete protein for tissue repair
- Anti-Inflammatory: Turmeric, galangal, and omega-3s reduce inflammation
- Brain Function: Omega-3 DHA and vitamin B12 support cognitive health
- Immune Support: Selenium, vitamin D, and aromatic spices boost immunity
- Metabolic Boost: MCTs from coconut milk increase energy expenditure
Is Amok Trey keto-friendly?
Yes, highly keto-friendly:
- 8g net carbs (well under 20g keto limit)
- 18g healthy fats (64% of calories from fat)
- 22g protein (moderate, appropriate for keto)
- No added sugars or starches
Serve without rice for perfect keto meal; the coconut milk provides sustained ketone-friendly energy.
What fish is best for Amok Trey?
Traditional options: Snakehead, catfish, or freshwater fish native to Cambodia.
Modern alternatives: Tilapia (mild, affordable), barramundi (sustainable, firm), salmon (highest omega-3), or cod (low-fat option). Choose firm white fish that holds shape during steaming; avoid delicate fish like sole that falls apart easily.
Recommendation: For maximum omega-3 benefits use salmon or mackerel; for authentic flavor use catfish or tilapia.
How do you make Amok Trey at home?
Quick Method:
- Blend kroeung paste: lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, garlic, shallots, kaffir lime zest
- Mix fish (chopped or ground) with coconut milk and kroeung paste
- Add fish sauce, palm sugar, and beaten egg
- Pour into banana leaf cups or ramekins
- Steam for 20-25 minutes until set like custard
- Garnish with chili slices, kaffir lime leaves, coconut cream
Use store-bought Thai curry paste as shortcut; add extra lemongrass and turmeric for authentic flavor.
Can I eat Amok Trey on an empty stomach?
Generally safe for most people - the protein and healthy fats provide gentle, sustained energy.
May want to pair with vegetables if you have: IBS (the coconut milk can be rich); acid reflux (add less chili); sensitive digestion (the spices may irritate).
Better approach: Eat as main meal with side of steamed vegetables for balanced nutrition and easier digestion.
ChatGPT
Claude
AI Mode
Perplexity 





