This vibrant Sambal is a staple condiment in Indonesian cuisine, offering a complex blend of heat, sweetness, and acidity. Made with dried Thai chilies, fresh garlic, and onion, it delivers a robust flavor profile that enhances curries, fried rice, or grilled meats. The addition of sugar and lemon juice balances the intense spiciness, creating a well-rounded paste that is both pungent and savory. Easy to prepare in a blender and quickly cooked down, this versatile sauce stores well in the refrigerator. It is an essential addition to your pantry for quick weeknight dinners or when you want to elevate simple dishes with authentic Southeast Asian flair.
Sambal (Chili Paste
Description
This vibrant Sambal is a staple condiment in Indonesian cuisine, offering a complex blend of heat, sweetness, and acidity. Made with dried Thai chilies, fresh garlic, and onion, it delivers a robust flavor profile that enhances curries, fried rice, or grilled meats. The addition of sugar and lemon juice balances the intense spiciness, creating a well-rounded paste that is both pungent and savory. Easy to prepare in a blender and quickly cooked down, this versatile sauce stores well in the refrigerator. It is an essential addition to your pantry for quick weeknight dinners or when you want to elevate simple dishes with authentic Southeast Asian flair.Ingredients
Directions
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Combine the dried Thai chilies, garlic cloves, chopped onion, sugar, lemon juice, water, and salt in a blender or food processor.
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Pulse or blend the mixture until the onions are finely minced and the ingredients are well combined but still retain some texture.
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Pour the blended mixture into a medium-sized saucepan or skillet.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces to about 1/2 cup and thickens slightly, approximately 10 minutes.
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Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 61.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 2437.8mg102%
- Total Carbohydrate 16.1g6%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 15.3g
- Protein 0.1g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Sambal is to Indonesian cuisine what salsa is to Mexican cooking: a fiery hot condiment served at every meal.
Storage: Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will meld and intensify over time.
Variations: You can adjust the heat level by using fewer chilies or adding more sugar for a sweeter profile.
Yield: This recipe makes approximately 1/2 cup of sambal.
