Sambal Belacan Bliss

Sambal Belacan Bliss is a classic Malay condiment that adds a spicy and savory kick to any dish. This versatile chili paste is a staple in Malaysian cuisine and can be used as a dipping sauce, marinade, or flavor enhancer for various dishes.

Sambal Belacan Bliss

Ingredients

  • 10 red chilies
  • 5 shallots
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon belacan (shrimp paste)
  • 2 tablespoons tamarind pulp
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Soak the tamarind pulp in 2 tablespoons of warm water for 10 minutes, then extract the juice and discard the pulp.
  2. Grind the red chilies, shallots, and garlic into a paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor.
  3. Heat a pan over medium heat and dry-roast the belacan until fragrant, then set aside to cool.
  4. In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the chili paste until fragrant.
  5. Add the roasted belacan, tamarind juice, sugar, and salt to the chili paste, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  6. Remove from heat and let the sambal belacan cool before transferring to a jar or container.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
10 minutes
Total time:
30 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
25 per serving
Carbohydrates
6g
Protein
1g
Fat
0g

Supplies

Bowl Pan Mortar and pestle or food processor Jar or container for storage

Tools

Cutting board Knife Spatula

Serving suggestions

Sambal Belacan Bliss is perfect as a condiment for grilled meats, seafood, or as a spicy dip for snacks like crackers or vegetable sticks.

Tips & tricks

For a milder sambal belacan, remove the seeds from the red chilies before grinding them into a paste.

Cost

$5