Easy Sambal Oelek (Essential Chili Paste)
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Looking for a simple yet flavorful chili paste? You can’t go wrong with sambal oelek, a beloved Indonesian staple! This easy recipe requires just three ingredients: red chili peppers, salt, and vinegar. But for an extra kick, we love to add garlic and shallots! Perfect for spicing up everything from stir-fries to marinades, this homemade sambal oelek is a must-try.
Sambal oelek is a delightful chili paste that brings a delicious kick to any dish. Made from fresh red chili peppers, salt, and a splash of acid—either vinegar or lime juice—this rustic condiment is both simple and versatile.
At its core, sambal oelek consists of just two ingredients: chilies and salt. The addition of acid lends a zesty tartness while also helping to preserve the paste for longer enjoyment.
Our sambal oelek recipe features five key ingredients, enhanced with shallots and garlic for extra flavor. It’s basic yet bold, making it the perfect starting point for crafting your favorite hot sauces and unique condiments.
Elevate your meals with this essential chili paste that packs a punch! Whether you’re looking to spice up a stir-fry, add depth to soups, or create your signature hot sauce, sambal oelek is the way to go.
Ingredients
For the ingredient measurements and the entire recipe, be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the blog post where the recipe card is located.
- Red chili peppers: Thai red chilis are traditional and what we used here. You can use red jalapenos, serranos, or cayenne peppers. These substitutes will result in a juicier sauce.
- Shallot
- Garlic
- Salt
- Rice vinegar: Distilled white vinegar will also work in a pinch.
Step by Step Directions
For the full recipe instructions, scroll down to the bottom of the blog post to the recipe card.
- Combine all the ingredients in a food processor.
- Pulse until a thick paste forms.
- You can keep the chili paste stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Tips For Success
- Thai red chilis are full of seeds. You can deseed them before using them if you wish.
- For a deeper flavor experience, try simmering the sauce on low heat for about 10 minutes before jarring it. This gentle cooking process can really help to mellow the flavors and create a delicious harmony. That said, if you want to keep it traditional, feel free to enjoy it raw and uncooked.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Creamy Jalapeño Sauce
- Easy Gochujang
- Sweet Chili Sauce
- Homemade Chili Sauce
- Homemade Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce
- Jalapeño Hot Sauce
Easy Sambal Oelek Recipe (Essential Chili Paste)
Ingredients
- 1 pound red chili peppers, stems removed
- 1 small shallot, peeled and roughly cut
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a food processor or blender
- Pulse until a coarse paste forms.
- Store in a airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Notes
- Peppers: Thai red chilis are traditional, but red jalapenos, serranos, and cayenne peppers are good substitutes.
Nutrition
The nutrition information provided is for convenience and as a courtesy only. It is not guaranteed to be accurate because nutrition information can vary for a variety of reasons. For precise nutritional data use your preferred nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and brands you used in the recipe.