How to Make Sambal Belacan Dressing Salad: A Flavorful Malaysian Delight

If you’re looking to add a fiery kick to your salad routine, look no further than the vibrant flavors of Malaysia. This Sambal Belacan Dressing Salad is not for the faint of heart! It packs a punch of spicy, savory, and tangy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Sambal Belacan, a staple in Malaysian cuisine, is a paste made from chilies, shrimp paste (belacan), and other aromatics. When combined with fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing, it creates an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for those who love bold flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, I’ll guide you through each step to ensure a delicious and satisfying salad experience. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

For the Sambal Belacan Dressing:

• 2-3 red chilies, deseeded and roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon shrimp paste (belacan), toasted
• 1 small shallot, peeled and roughly chopped
• 1 clove garlic, peeled
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons water

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment:

• Mortar and pestle or food processor
• Small mixing bowl

Instructions:

Making the Sambal Belacan Dressing:

1. Toast the shrimp paste (belacan): In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the shrimp paste for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step helps to remove any fishy smell and enhance its nutty flavor. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Grind the ingredients: Combine the toasted shrimp paste, chilies, shallot, and garlic in a mortar and pestle. Pound until you achieve a fine paste. Alternatively, you can use a food processor for a smoother consistency.
3. Adjust the flavor: Add lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and water to the paste. Mix well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. You can add more lime juice for extra tanginess or sugar to balance the saltiness.

Assembling the Salad:

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables.
2. Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
3. Dress and serve: Drizzle the prepared Sambal Belacan Dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

Tips and Notes:

• Spice level: The amount of chili you use can be adjusted to your liking. For a milder dressing, remove the seeds from the chilies.
• Shrimp paste substitute: If you don’t have shrimp paste, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of fish sauce. However, keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor profile.
• Freshness is key: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation:

This vibrant salad can be served in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing. For an extra touch, garnish with some chopped peanuts or fried shallots for added crunch and visual appeal.

Sambal Belacan Dressing Salad

FAQs:

• Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the Sambal Belacan Dressing a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. Just be sure to give it a good stir before drizzling it over the salad.
• What can I substitute for fish sauce? If you’re vegetarian or don’t have fish sauce on hand, you can use soy sauce as a substitute. However, it will add a slightly different flavor profile to the dressing.

Ingredients for Sambal Belacan Dressing

Conclusion:

There you have it! A simple and delicious Sambal Belacan Dressing Salad that’s bursting with authentic Malaysian flavors. Don’t be intimidated by the bold ingredients – the result is a rewarding and unforgettable salad experience. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! If you’re looking for more exciting salad recipes, be sure to explore the rest of our website for more culinary adventures.