Sambal Ulek Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Start by removing the stems from the red chilies and roughly chop them.
• STEP 2.Peel the garlic cloves and shallots, then chop them into small pieces.
• STEP 3.In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, add the chopped chilies, garlic, shallots, and salt.
• STEP 4.Pound or blend the ingredients until you get a coarse paste. If using a mortar and pestle, use a circular motion to grind the ingredients together.
• STEP 5.Transfer the sambal ulek to a clean jar or container and store it in the refrigerator.
• STEP 6.Sambal ulek can be used immediately, but the flavors will develop and intensify if you let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
• STEP 7.Serve the sambal ulek as a condiment alongside grilled meats, fried rice, noodles, or any Indonesian dish that needs a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips

• Adjust the amount of chilies according to your preferred level of spiciness.
• For a smoother texture, you can remove the seeds from the chilies before pounding or blending them.
• To enhance the flavor, you can add a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of vinegar to the sambal ulek.

Storage and Serving

• Store the sambal ulek in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Serve the sambal ulek at room temperature or slightly chilled.
• You can also freeze the sambal ulek in small portions for longer storage.