Condiment|Spice Paste | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Sambal Oelek

Capsicum annuum (main ingredient) Allergen-Free
sambal oelek

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae (for chilies)
  • Primary Cuisine Southeast Asian|Indonesian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Red chilies

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A raw chili paste originating from Indonesia, made primarily from crushed red chilies, vinegar, and salt, offering a fiery, pure heat.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent, Spicy, Salty, Acidic
TextureChunky, Gritty (fine)
AromaPungent, Garlicky (if added)
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Primary Ingredient

Fresh Red Chilies

Scoville Range

1,000-10,000 SHU

Shelf Life (Opened, Refrigerated)

6-12 months

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tsp (5g)
Calories39 kcal
Total Fat0.9 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.7 g
Total Carbohydrate7 g
Dietary Fiber3 g
Total Sugars4 g
Calcium16 mg
Iron0.4 mg
Potassium250 mg

Chef’s Secret

To tone down the heat slightly without diluting flavor, mix sambal oelek with a bit of lime juice or a neutral oil.

Substitutions

Best Match

Sriracha

1:1

Similar heat and garlic notes, but sweeter and smoother. Good for general spice.

Gochujang

1:1

Korean chili paste, fermented, offers complex heat, sweetness, and umami. Not a direct heat match.

Fresh Red Chilies

2-3 chilies per tsp

Mince finely for fresh heat and texture, but lacks the vinegar and salt complexity.

Chili Garlic Sauce

1:1

Very similar in texture and heat, often with added garlic, a close substitute.

Buying Guide

Choose brands with minimal ingredients (chilies, salt, vinegar). Refrigerate after opening.

Flavor Pairings

Noodle dishes fried rice marinades dipping sauces eggs stir-fries soups.

Recipes Using Sambal Oelek

Some Like It Hot image 167
Asian Weeknight Main Dish Dietary

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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Amen For Ramen Asian Style Salad image 133
Inexpensive Cuisine Course Asian

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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Bami Goreng image 167
Course Preparation Asian Technique

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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Bami Goreng Indonesian Stir Fried Noodles image 143
Time To Make Dietary European Taste Mood

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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Bami Goreng Indonesian Version Of Lo Mein image 158
Preparation Spaghetti Preparation Main Ingredient

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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Beef And Broccoli image 183
Healthy 2 Preparation Presentation Asian

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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