Spicy Shrimp Paste (sambal Belacan)

Spicy Shrimp Paste, also known as Sambal Belacan, is a popular condiment in Malay cuisine. It is a fiery and pungent paste made from chilies, shrimp paste, and other aromatics, perfect for adding a kick to your dishes.

Spicy Shrimp Paste (sambal Belacan)

Ingredients

  • 10 red chilies, seeded and chopped
  • 5 shallots, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon shrimp paste (belacan)
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. In a dry pan, toast the shrimp paste until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. In a blender, combine the chilies, shallots, garlic, toasted shrimp paste, tamarind pulp, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
  3. Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the blended mixture until fragrant and the oil separates.
  4. Season with salt to taste.
  5. Let the sambal belacan cool before transferring to a jar for storage.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
45kcal
Carbohydrates
8g
Protein
2g
Fat
1g

Supplies

Pan Blender Jar for storage

Tools

Knife Cutting board Spatula

Serving suggestions

Serve the Spicy Shrimp Paste with grilled fish, rice, or use it as a dipping sauce for snacks.

Tips & tricks

Be careful when handling the chilies and shrimp paste, as they can be very pungent. Adjust the amount of chilies to control the spiciness of the paste.

Cost

$5