Origin of Khmer Hot Honey

Khmer Hot Honey was born not just from a love for Cambodian flavors, but from a personal craving and a surprising discovery. Our journey truly began in March 2025, several years after I returned home to Phnom Penh in 2021, following a decade in the United States. During my time abroad, I'd developed a real fondness for hot honey, especially its incredible pairing with pizza—a truly unbeatable combination. It wasn't until that moment in March 2025 that a sudden, strong urge to have it again hit me. Upon my return, I searched high and low in local grocery stores like Lucky, Thai Huot, and Super Duper, hoping to find that familiar sweet heat in the sauce or honey aisles. To my disappointment, it was nowhere to be found. So, like any determined foodie, I decided to take matters into my own hands and make my own hot honey.

After several batches of experimentation in my kitchen, I finally crafted a condiment I truly loved. I started sharing it with my immediate circle: my mom and dad, my best friend, then my colleagues, and even my fiancé's brother. What surprised me most was their reaction. For many of them, it was their first time ever trying hot honey, yet they absolutely loved it and eagerly asked for their own jars and bottles. That was the pivotal moment. It became clear to me that this unique sweet and spicy flavor was something many Khmer people had likely never experienced, or even knew existed. This realization sparked the true mission behind Khmer Hot Honey: to share this versatile condiment with our community. It's a flavor that elevates just about anything and everything, from savory dishes to desserts, fruits, and vegetables. Whether you drizzle, dip, or marinate, Khmer Hot Honey promises to fill your palate with a delightful dance of sweetness and heat.