Sambalado, a vibrant and spicy chili sauce, is a staple in Indonesian cuisine. This versatile condiment can elevate any dish with its fiery kick. Below is a comprehensive guide to making Sambalado, including ingredients, preparation, tips, variations, and nutritional information.
Ingredients
To make Sambalado, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 10 red chili peppers (adjust to taste)
- 5 bird's eye chili peppers (for extra heat)
- 5 shallots
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Preparation and Instructions
Prepare the ingredients:
- Wash the chili peppers, shallots, garlic, and tomatoes.
- Roughly chop the chili peppers, shallots, garlic, and tomatoes.
Blend the ingredients:
- In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the chili peppers, shallots, garlic, and tomatoes into a coarse paste. The texture should be slightly chunky for a more authentic feel.
Cook the sambal:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chili paste to the pan and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.
Season the sambal:
- Add salt, sugar, and lime juice to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Cool and store:
- Remove the pan from heat and let the sambal cool.
- Transfer the sambal to a clean jar or container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Serving Suggestions
- As a condiment: Serve Sambalado alongside grilled meats, fish, or tofu.
- As a dip: Pair it with fried snacks like tempeh, tofu, or vegetable fritters.
- In recipes: Use it to spice up soups, stews, or noodle dishes.
Tips for Making the Perfect Sambalado
- Adjust the heat level: If you prefer a milder sambal, reduce the number of bird's eye chili peppers or substitute them with milder chilies.
- Texture variation: For a smoother sambal, blend the ingredients longer. For a chunkier texture, pulse briefly.
- Freshness matters: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Variations
- Sambalado Teri: Add small fried anchovies to the sambal for an umami twist.
- Sambalado Petai: Incorporate stinky beans (petai) for a unique flavor and texture.
- Sambalado Mangga: Add shredded young mango for a tangy and spicy combination.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Sambalado (about 1 tablespoon) contains approximately:
- Calories: 20 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 1.5 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
Conclusion
Sambalado is a versatile and spicy condiment that can enhance a variety of dishes. By following this recipe, you can create a flavorful sambal that reflects the vibrant culinary traditions of Indonesia. Whether you enjoy it as a dip, a condiment, or a cooking ingredient, Sambalado is sure to add a delicious kick to your meals. Experiment with different variations and heat levels to find your perfect blend, and enjoy the fiery goodness of this Indonesian favorite.
