How to Make Indonesian sambal terasi sauce

• Begin by preparing the ingredients. Remove the stems from the red chili peppers and roughly chop them. Peel and chop the shallots and garlic cloves.
• Heat a small skillet over medium heat and dry roast the shrimp paste (terasi) for a minute or two until it becomes fragrant. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic cloves, and sauté until they become fragrant and lightly browned.
• Add the chopped red chili peppers to the skillet and continue to sauté for a few more minutes until they soften.
• Transfer the sautéed ingredients to a mortar and pestle or a food processor. Add the roasted shrimp paste, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Grind or process the mixture until you achieve a smooth and well-combined sauce. You can adjust the consistency by adding a little water if needed.
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more sugar, salt, or lime juice as desired.
• Transfer the sambal terasi sauce to a clean jar or container. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.

The sambal terasi sauce is typically served as a condiment or dipping sauce with various Indonesian dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled or fried seafood, such as fish, shrimp, or squid. It can also be enjoyed with rice, noodles, or as a flavor enhancer for soups and stir-fries.

Sambal terasi is a popular Indonesian hot sauce known for its spicy and savory flavor. It is made primarily from red chili peppers and shrimp paste, which gives it a unique and distinctive taste. The sauce adds a fiery kick to dishes and is a staple in Indonesian cuisine. Its versatility allows it to complement a wide range of foods, making it a favorite condiment among spice lovers.

Facts about the sauce:

1. Sambal terasi is a staple condiment in Indonesian cuisine, and its popularity has spread to other Southeast Asian countries as well.
2. The sauce gets its spiciness from the red chili peppers and its umami depth from the shrimp paste.
3. Sambal terasi can vary in spiciness depending on the type and amount of chili peppers used.
4. It is a versatile sauce that can be used as a dipping sauce, condiment, or flavor enhancer in various dishes.
5. The combination of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors makes sambal terasi a beloved component of Indonesian cuisine.