Sambal Teri, a fiery and savory Indonesian chili sauce, is a staple condiment in many Southeast Asian households. Made with a blend of fresh chilies, tomatoes, and tiny dried anchovies called ikan teri, this sambal packs a powerful punch of umami and spice. It’s incredibly versatile and can elevate the flavor of any dish, from simple rice and noodles to grilled meats and seafood.
If you’re a fan of spicy food and looking for an easy yet flavorful condiment to add to your culinary repertoire, then this Sambal Teri recipe is for you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Sambal Teri, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 100g fresh red chilies (adjust to your spice preference)
- 50g shallots, peeled and roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 50g dried anchovies (ikan teri), rinsed
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (terasi)
- 1 teaspoon tamarind pulp, soaked in 1/4 cup warm water and strained
- 1 teaspoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- Salt to taste
Tools You’ll Need
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mortar and pestle or food processor
- Small saucepan
Let’s Make Sambal Teri!
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
- Deseed the chilies (for less heat) and roughly chop them.
- In a small pan, dry-fry the anchovies over low heat until crispy. Set aside.
Step 2: Blending the Aromatics
- In a mortar and pestle or food processor, combine the chilies, shallots, garlic, and shrimp paste.
- Grind or blend until a coarse paste is formed.
Step 3: Cooking the Sambal
- Heat the cooking oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chili paste and cook, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant and the oil starts to separate.
Step 4: Adding the Flavors
- Stir in the tamarind water, palm sugar, and salt.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sambal thickens and the flavors meld.
- Add the crispy anchovies in the last minute of cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once cooked, remove the sambal from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Serve it warm or at room temperature as a condiment with your favorite dishes.
Sambal Teri Ingredients
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Sambal Teri
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chilies used based on your desired level of spiciness. Removing the seeds will also help reduce the heat.
- Anchovy Substitutes: If you can’t find ikan teri, you can substitute them with other small dried fish or shrimp.
- Tamarind Substitute: If you don’t have tamarind, you can use lime juice for a similar sour note.
- Sweetness Balance: Adjust the amount of palm sugar to your liking. You can start with less and add more to achieve your desired balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
Serving Suggestions for Your Sambal Teri
- Rice and Noodles: Sambal Teri is a classic condiment for dishes like Nasi Lemak, Nasi Goreng, or Mie Goreng.
- Grilled Meats and Seafood: Use it as a dipping sauce for grilled chicken, fish, or prawns.
- Vegetables: Add a dollop to steamed vegetables or stir-fries for an extra kick.
- Eggs: Elevate your breakfast by adding Sambal Teri to your scrambled eggs, omelets, or fried eggs.
Sambal Teri Close-up
Storing Your Sambal Teri
- Once cooled, transfer your homemade Sambal Teri to a sterilized jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
FAQs About Sambal Teri
1. Can I make Sambal Teri in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors tend to meld and deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
2. What is the purpose of frying the anchovies?
Frying the anchovies enhances their flavor and adds a crispy texture to the sambal.
3. Can I use a blender instead of a mortar and pestle?
Yes, you can use a blender or food processor to make the sambal. However, pulse it in short bursts to achieve a coarse paste and avoid over-blending it into a smooth puree.
4. What can I substitute shrimp paste with?
If you’re allergic to shrimp paste or can’t find it, you can try using fish sauce for a similar umami flavor. However, start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your taste.
Sambal Teri Serving Suggestion
Give Sambal Teri a Try!
This versatile and flavorful Sambal Teri recipe is a must-try for any spice enthusiast. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to your liking. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a taste of Indonesia in your own kitchen! And be sure to explore our website for more delicious sauce and condiment recipes from around the world!
