Sambal Oelek

N/A (Condiment) Condiment, Chili Paste

Sambal Oelek Condiment, Chili Paste

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment, Chili Paste

The Forktionary Angle

"The essential, unadulterated chili paste that brings clean, bright heat without overpowering other flavors."

Definition

A vibrant, raw Indonesian chili paste made from crushed fresh red chilies, vinegar, and salt, delivering pure, unadulterated heat.

Primary Ingredient Fresh Red Chilies
Scoville Range 1,000-10,000 SHU
Shelf Life (Opened, Refrigerated) 6-12 months

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Sambal Oelek are:

Spicy pungent tangy fresh chili

Chef’s Secret

A small dollop of Sambal Oelek can brighten the flavor of a dull soup or stew, adding a fresh, piquant kick without heavy garlic or sweetness.

Best Substitutes

Sriracha

sweeter, garlic notes
Ratio 1:1

Gochujang

fermented, sweeter, umami
Ratio 1:1

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

for dry applications
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose brands with minimal additional ingredients to ensure a pure chili flavor.

Recipes Using Sambal Oelek

Weeknight Indonesian Main Dish Course

Some Like It Hot

Ignite your taste buds with this fiery Indonesian-inspired tempeh stir-fry! Packed with vibrant vegetables, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic spices, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Skip the chili peppers and sambal for a milder version, but be warned – even without them, it's still a flavor explosion! Serve with fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Course Course Beef Meat

Beijing Beef

Craving Panda Express Beijing Beef? This recipe is the closest you'll get to recreating that sweet and savory flavor at home! We've perfected the balance of tender, crispy beef strips with a vibrant sauce – a delicious blend of hoisin, sweet and sour, and a hint of citrus. This isn't just a copycat recipe; it's an elevated take, using fresh ingredients and a simple technique that yields restaurant-quality results. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will impress your family and friends!

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Fruit Cheese Winter Course

And All Because He Does Not Like Sauerkraut 1

Tired of sauerkraut battles? This recipe transforms traditional Dutch sauerkraut into a sweet and spicy dish the whole family will love! Inspired by a Dutch-English culinary fusion, this recipe features tender ham rolls nestled in a flavorful sauerkraut base, enhanced with pineapple, bell pepper, and a hint of curry. Customize the spice level with optional sambal oelek. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a unique dinner party dish.

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Chicken Stir Fry European Course

Bami Goreng Indonesian Stir Fried Noodles

Unlock the secrets of authentic Indonesian Bami Goreng, a beloved dish with roots in Holland! This recipe is surprisingly easy – prep ahead for company or a quick weeknight meal. Customize the spice level with sambal to your liking. Get ready to savor the vibrant flavors of stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a medley of crisp vegetables. Garnish with refreshing lychees and crunchy kroepoek for a truly unforgettable experience.

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Indonesian Meat For 1 Or 2 Pork Loins

Babi Ketjap

Indonesian Babi Ketjap: A mouthwatering recipe for succulent soy sauce pork! This easy-to-follow recipe delivers tender, flavorful pork in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a family favorite. Get ready for a taste of Indonesia!

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Meat Main Ingredient Chicken Poultry

Asian Aromatic Chicken

Experience a burst of Asian flavors with this aromatic chicken recipe! Inspired by Cooking Light (May 2008), this dish features tender chicken infused with a complex marinade, then delicately steamed to perfection. The rich, reduced sauce adds the perfect finishing touch. A healthy and delicious weeknight meal that's sure to impress!

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Served Hot Beef Low Carb 60 Minutes Or Less

Beef And Broccoli

Master the art of authentic Beef and Broccoli with this recipe inspired by the legendary Stephen Yan! This quick and flavorful stir-fry delivers tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to unleash your inner wok chef!

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60 Minutes Or Less Asian Cuisine Indonesian

Bami Goreng Indonesian Version Of Lo Mein

Indonesian Bami Goreng, a flavorful fried noodle dish, is a family favorite! This recipe, inspired by a cherished grandmother's recipe, uses tender chicken instead of pork, making it a delicious and accessible meal for everyone. Learn how to make this vibrant, aromatic noodle dish packed with fresh vegetables and authentic Indonesian flavors. Customize it with your favorite veggies – we suggest peas, carrots, or bell peppers for a pop of color! Get ready for a culinary journey to Indonesia in just 40 minutes.

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Main Dish Asian Cuisine Time To Make

Bami Goreng

Transport yourself to the vibrant markets of Broome, Western Australia with this authentic Bami Goreng recipe! This exotic and flavorful Indonesian noodle dish is a true taste of the tropics, combining perfectly cooked noodles with crunchy vegetables, aromatic spices, and a touch of sweetness. A popular holiday destination, Broome's culinary scene is a highlight, and this recipe captures the essence of that experience. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Bami Goreng is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Preparation Number Of Servings Preparation Course

Amen For Ramen Asian Style Salad

This vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired noodle salad is a super quick, healthy, and vegetarian-friendly meal ready in under 15 minutes! Customize it with cooked chicken for extra protein or use soy mayo for a delicious vegan option. Crispy peanuts and fresh cilantro add the perfect finishing touch to this satisfying and refreshing salad.

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Chicken Thighs Legs Easy Cuisine Meat

African Gumbo

Warm up on chilly nights with this vibrant African Gumbo! This easy-to-make, flavorful soup is packed with spicy warmth and tender chicken, perfect for a comforting dinner. Ready in under 90 minutes, it's a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will love.

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