Phnom penh: Chef Un Nuon Maria, the head chef at Smiling Gecko’s Farmhouse Restaurant and Spa, is bringing Cambodian cuisine to the forefront of the international culinary scene, earning recognition from Michelin-starred chefs and prestigious restaurants across Europe and Asia.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Chef Maria’s expertise is reshaping the global perception of Khmer food, a cuisine previously underrepresented in fine dining circles. ‘Our Khmer food is truly delicious, and it is now being praised by people worldwide, including those who frequent renowned establishments led by celebrated chefs,’ Maria said in an interview.

Her mission to showcase the depth of Cambodian gastronomy goes beyond personal acclaim. ‘For a decade, I have proudly represented myself as a Cambodian chef,’ she stated. ‘I want the world to know that our cuisine is exceptional. We are not just about grilled chicken or fried fish. I believe that one day, Khmer cuisine will be celebrated internationally.’

Maria’s journey to culinary prominence began under challenging circumstances. She left home at age 12 to support her family, where she met a woman who had cooked for Cambodian royalty-an encounter that ignited her passion for Khmer fine dining.

Her potential was recognised by Dr. h.c. Hannes Schmid, co-founder of Smiling Gecko. ‘Dr. Hannes introduced me to the kitchen and began mentoring me,’ Maria recalled. With his support, she studied at an international hospitality school in Switzerland, which launched her career collaborating with renowned European chefs.

Her signature dishes, such as fish amok and Kampot pepper shrimp, have been so well-received that elements have been incorporated into menus at top European hotels. ‘This fills me with immense pride,’ she said.

Now, Maria is focused on nurturing the next generation. ‘Cambodians are not lacking in skill. I want to mentor young chefs with potential, helping them become global ambassadors for our cuisine,’ she added.

With Maria’s dedication, the prospect of Cambodian chefs leading kitchens in Michelin-starred restaurants worldwide appears increasingly attainable, with Maria herself poised to become a defining figure in global gastronomy.