India interviews Van Tan, owner of iconic Khmer restaurant, Phnom Penh Noodle Shack, and Allen Prom, owner of Cambodian hot sauce company, Yeak inc. To some it might come as a surprise that Long Beach is home to the largest Cambodian diaspora in the world. India visits Phnom Penh Noodle Shack, the legendary and beloved restaurant started by Van Tan's aunt and uncle in 1985. India speaks with Van over a bowl of nom banh chok and other tasty dishes as they discuss their noodles, what it was like growing up first-generation in a restaurant, as well as what their family members endured during the Khmer Rouge from 1975-1979. Cambodia's flavors are a medley of Indian, Chinese, French, Thai and Portuguese. India speaks to Allen Prom, former chef and owner of Cambodian hot sauce company Yeak Inc. He explains the communist history, the origin story of some iconic dishes, as well as the harsh famine his parents endured. The conversations often deviate to those about trauma, but with the pain and hardship endured there is a strength, beauty and resilience. 

Listen, see photos, and read recipes and transcripts at eatingamericawithindia.com and follow us on Instagram and Twitter

Follow Phnom Penh Noodle Shack @phnompenhnoodleshack and order on their website

Follow Allen Prom on Instagram @fatasianfoodie and his hot sauce company @yeakinc. Order a bottle here.

Subscribe to the Eating America with India newsletter
Fill out my Audience Feedback form here

Created and produced by India Witkin @spicymasalamama

Original composition and mixing by Kilcool @kilcoolbeats

Cover art by Suzanne Borderies @art_bysuz

Consulting edited and written by Susannah Gruder @suegru 

Consulting produced by Dylan Gans

Support the show