How to Make Sambal Kerapu: A Flavorful Indonesian Chili Sauce

Sambal Kerapu, a fiery and flavorful Indonesian chili sauce, is a staple condiment in many Southeast Asian households. Unlike the more common Sambal Oelek, which solely relies on chilies for its heat, Sambal Kerapu incorporates tomatoes for a touch of sweetness and depth. This vibrant sauce, bursting with a symphony of flavors – spicy, tangy, and savory – can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 8-10 red chilies, stems removed (adjust to your spice preference)
• 4 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 6 shallots, peeled
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled

Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (terasi), toasted
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar, or to taste
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Optional Garnishes:

• Freshly chopped cilantro
• Thinly sliced red chilies

Tools of the Trade:

• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mortar and pestle, or a food processor
• Small frying pan
• Heat-resistant spatula
• Airtight container for storage

Fresh ingredients for Sambal Kerapu

Let’s Make Sambal Kerapu:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Rinse the chilies, tomatoes, shallots, and garlic thoroughly. Remove the chili stems and roughly chop the tomatoes.

2. Toast the Shrimp Paste: In a dry frying pan over medium heat, toast the shrimp paste (terasi) for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. This step is crucial for removing any raw smell and enhancing its nutty flavor.

3. Grind the Aromatics: In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, combine the chilies, shallots, and garlic. Grind or blend until a smooth paste is formed.

4. Sauté the Paste: Heat the vegetable oil in the frying pan. Add the chili paste and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and the oil starts to separate.

5. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

6. Season and Simmer: Crumble the toasted shrimp paste into the pan. Add salt and sugar to taste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sambal thickens and the oil rises to the top.

7. Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a spicier sambal, add more chilies. For a sweeter version, incorporate a touch more sugar.

8. Cool and Store: Once cooked, allow the Sambal Kerapu to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Cooking Sambal Kerapu in a pan

Tips and Tricks:

• Spice Level: Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice tolerance. Remember, you can always add more heat, but you can’t take it away!
• 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 it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
• Tomato Variety: While ripe tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness, you can use canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable.

Serving Suggestions:

Sambal Kerapu is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes:

• Seafood: Enjoy it as a dipping sauce for grilled fish, prawns, or squid.
• Meat Dishes: Add a dollop to your favorite chicken, beef, or pork recipes for an extra kick.
• Noodles and Rice: Elevate your instant noodles or steamed rice with a spoonful of this fiery condiment.
• Vegetables: Use it as a dipping sauce for fresh or steamed vegetables.
• Eggs: Spice up your scrambled eggs, omelets, or fried eggs with a touch of Sambal Kerapu.

Storage:

Properly stored Sambal Kerapu can last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors in your fridge.

Sambal Kerapu served with Indonesian food

Ready to Fire Up Your Taste Buds?

Sambal Kerapu is more than just a condiment; it’s an explosion of flavor that can transform your culinary creations. Now that you know how to make it, try this recipe at home and experience the magic of Indonesian cuisine. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!