Local Cambodians usually do not have a place to grow vegetables or
raise livestock and rely on shops in their neighborhood run by other
Southeast Asians. The bulk of their food is bought at these stores with
only an occasional visit to chain stores such as Safeway. White rice
continues as a main staple with accompanying soup. Brown rice is not
typically eaten with some local Cambodians stating that it is for birds
and prisoners. Some additional favorites include: fish, shrimp, stir
fried vegetables and the following vegetables: eggplant, cauliflower,
broccoli, string beans, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, Thai okra, and
watercress. Fruit is often included in a meal and may include: coconut,
mango, pineapple, pomegranate, tamarind, mangostein, watermelon, orange,
rambutan, durian, jackfruit or guava. Sweets are a rare addition and may
include imported cupcakes, cookies, or candies. Family meals are
still valued, however, daily life takes family members away from home at
all hours (working, ESL, and school) making communal mealtime often
difficult.