Jengkol, a somewhat controversial but beloved ingredient in Indonesian cuisine, is celebrated for its unique taste and texture. One of the most popular ways to enjoy jengkol is by pairing it with sambal teri, a spicy and savory chili paste with anchovies. This dish offers a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Here's how you can make your own Jengkol Sambal Teri at home.
Ingredients:
- 250g jengkol (boiled until tender and sliced thinly)
- 100g dried anchovies (teri), cleaned and washed
- 5 red chilies, sliced
- 3 shallots, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons palm sugar
- 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (terasi), toasted
- Salt to taste
- Cooking oil
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the dried anchovies until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant.
- Add sliced jengkol and diced tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
- Stir in sliced red chilies, tamarind paste, palm sugar, and shrimp paste. Mix well.
- Add the fried anchovies back into the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Season with salt according to your taste.
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat.
Serving:
- Serve the Jengkol Sambal Teri hot with steamed rice or as a side dish for your meal.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or fried shallots for added flavor and presentation.
Tips:
- Be cautious when handling jengkol as it has a strong odor. Boiling it before slicing and cooking helps reduce the smell.
- Adjust the spiciness of the sambal by adding or reducing the amount of red chilies.
- You can add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy kick.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated and enjoyed later.
Variations:
- For a richer flavor, you can add coconut milk to the sambal.
- Experiment with different types of chili peppers for varying levels of heat and flavor.
- Incorporate other vegetables like green beans or carrots for added texture and nutrients.
Nutritional Information:
- The exact nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used. However, Jengkol Sambal Teri is generally high in protein from the anchovies and contains essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spices.
Conclusion:
Jengkol Sambal Teri is a delightful dish that showcases the bold and vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Despite its strong aroma, jengkol adds a unique earthy taste to the dish, complemented by the fiery heat of the sambal and the umami richness of the anchovies. Whether you're a jengkol enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe promises a memorable culinary experience that will leave you craving for more. Enjoy the rich tapestry of flavors and spices in every bite of this delicious Indonesian delicacy!
