How to Make Indonesian sambal sauce

• Begin by preparing the chili peppers. Remove the stems and roughly chop them. If you prefer a milder sauce, you can remove the seeds as well.
• Peel the garlic cloves and shallots, then roughly chop them.
• Dice the tomato.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and shallots, and sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
• Add the diced tomato to the pan and cook for a few minutes until it starts to soften.
• Now, add the chopped chili peppers and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• In a separate bowl, mix the tamarind paste with a small amount of water until it dissolves. Then, add it to the pan along with the palm sugar, shrimp paste (if using), and salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
• Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
• Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and let it cool.
• Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or sugar according to your preference.
• Pour the sambal sauce into a clean jar or container, and it is now ready to be served or stored in the refrigerator.

The sambal sauce is typically served as a condiment or dipping sauce for various Indonesian dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, fried rice, noodles, or even as a spicy kick to soups and stews.

In conclusion, Indonesian sambal sauce is a popular hot sauce made primarily from chili peppers. It adds a spicy and tangy flavor to dishes and is a staple in Indonesian cuisine. The combination of chili peppers, garlic, shallots, and other ingredients creates a vibrant and versatile sauce that enhances the taste of various dishes. Sambal sauce is loved for its heat and complex flavors, making it a must-try for spice enthusiasts.

Facts about sambal sauce:

1. Sambal is a traditional Indonesian chili sauce that varies in heat and ingredients across different regions of the country.
2. The word “sambal” is derived from the Javanese language and refers to any sauce made with chili peppers.
3. Sambal is an essential part of Indonesian cuisine and is commonly found on dining tables throughout the country.
4. There are numerous varieties of sambal, including sambal oelek, sambal terasi, sambal bajak, and many more, each with its own unique flavor profile and ingredients.
5. Sambal is not only popular in Indonesia but has gained recognition worldwide for its fiery taste and ability to add depth and spiciness to dishes.