This Indonesian Chile Paste, known as Sambal Badjak, is a vibrant, aromatic condiment that serves as the soul of many traditional dishes. It balances the fiery heat of fresh red chilies with the earthy depth of galangal, the pungency of shrimp paste, and the creamy richness of coconut milk. The addition of candlenuts provides a smooth texture, while tamarind and brown sugar offer a subtle sweet-sour complexity. This versatile paste is essential for adding authentic flavor to curries, stir-fries, or grilled meats. It can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making weeknight cooking easier and more flavorful. Perfect for adventurous home cooks looking to explore Southeast Asian cuisine.
Indonesian Chile Paste
Description
This Indonesian Chile Paste, known as Sambal Badjak, is a vibrant, aromatic condiment that serves as the soul of many traditional dishes. It balances the fiery heat of fresh red chilies with the earthy depth of galangal, the pungency of shrimp paste, and the creamy richness of coconut milk. The addition of candlenuts provides a smooth texture, while tamarind and brown sugar offer a subtle sweet-sour complexity. This versatile paste is essential for adding authentic flavor to curries, stir-fries, or grilled meats. It can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making weeknight cooking easier and more flavorful. Perfect for adventurous home cooks looking to explore Southeast Asian cuisine.Ingredients
Directions
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Remove stems and seeds from the fresh red chilies.
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Chop 2 medium onions and peel and chop 4 garlic cloves.
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Peel and chop 1 inch of fresh galangal (or ginger).
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In a food processor or blender, combine the chilies, chopped onions, garlic, 1 teaspoon shrimp paste, 5 candlenuts (or macadamia nuts/cashews), 1 teaspoon tamarind concentrate, and the chopped galangal.
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Puree the mixture until it forms a fine, smooth paste.
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Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add the pureed paste to the skillet and saute, stirring frequently, until aromatic and the raw smell disappears, about 3 to 4 minutes.
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Stir in 1 cup thick coconut milk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, and 2 crushed dried kaffir lime leaves.
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Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 778.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 2.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 200.0g67%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 200.0g
- Protein 0.0g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
