March 10, 2011 9:44 am

Dish of the Day: Peppercorn Catfish Sandwich From Num Pang

What do you get when you combine an experienced New York chef with a Cambodian restaurant owner? Num Pang, an inexpensive sandwich shop with a Cambodian twist. The concept of Num Pang draws from the historical attributes of Cambodia combined with Ratha Chaupoly's experiences with food both here and in Cambodia. He now partners up with Ben Daitz to create casual sandwiches with lots of taste.

Cambodia is located in South East Asia, and because of its close proximity to both China and India, influences from both cultures can be found in Cambodian cuisine, as well as the food served at Num Pang. Cambodia was also once a French colonial possession, introducing even more new food to the country, including the beloved baguette and certain dairy products.

Keeping authentic Cambodian traditions is important to both owners, especially Ratha who lived in Phnom Penh until he was 9. However, nothing is more important than ensuring that all ingredients are fresh. Local and fresh produce is consistently used in the sandwiches and the soups served at Num Pang. Every sandwich is served on a warm French baguette with cucumber, chili mayonnaise, pickled carrots, cilantro, and lettuce. No matter which option you try at Num Pang, you can be sure that your sandwich will be full of flavor and select meat and produce.

While at Num Pang, I tried the Peppercorn Catfish sandwich cooked in a sweet soy sauce. The fish was fresh and light, but still didn't lose its flavor underneath the sauce. The vegetables were refreshing and each had a distinct taste under the crisp, warm baguette. Without being smothered by cheese or stuffed into a twelve inch roll, I left Num Pang feeling satisfied and surprised by the many flavors, without feeling bloated or guilty.

Tip: Order the tart blood orange lemonade to match perfectly with almost all of the sweeter sandwiches. Num Pang offers perfectly complimented non alcoholic beverages to pair with their delicious sandwiches.

Photo credit: Num Pang

— Written by Valerie Cario

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Tags : Num Pang, Ratha Chaupoly, Ben Daitz, Valerie Cario, catfish, Cambodia

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