Sambal is a chili-based condiment that is popular in Southeast Asia. It is made with a variety of chili peppers, as well as other ingredients such as shrimp paste, garlic, ginger, and lime juice. Sambal can be used as a condiment to accompany a variety of dishes, or it can be used as an ingredient in cooking.
How is Sambal Used in Malaysian Cooking?
In Malaysian cuisine, sambal is a ubiquitous ingredient. It is used in a wide variety of dishes, from humble street food to fine dining. Sambal can be used to add heat, flavor, and complexity to dishes.
Here are some popular Malaysian dishes that use sambal:
- Nasi lemak: A fragrant rice dish that is made with coconut milk, pandan leaves, and a variety of spices. Sambal is often added to the rice to add a spicy kick.
- Char kway teow: A stir-fried noodle dish that is made with flat rice noodles, shrimp, chicken, and a variety of vegetables. Sambal is often added to the stir-fry to add a spicy and flavorful sauce.
- Asam laksa: A spicy and sour noodle soup that is made with fish, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables. Sambal is often added to the soup to add a spicy and flavorful kick.
- Satay: Grilled skewers of meat or seafood that are served with a dipping sauce made from sambal, peanut butter, and coconut milk.
- Laksa: A spicy noodle soup that is made with a variety of seafood, vegetables, and sambal.
Types of Sambal
There are many different types of sambal, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular types of sambal in Malaysia include:
- Sambal belacan: This sambal is made with chili peppers, shrimp paste, garlic, and lime juice. It is a popular condiment for nasi lemak and other rice dishes.
- Sambal oelek: This sambal is made with chili peppers, vinegar, and salt. It is a versatile sambal that can be used as a condiment or an ingredient in cooking.
- Sambal kicap: This sambal is made with chili peppers, soy sauce, and sugar. It is a sweet and spicy sambal that is often used as a condiment for chicken and seafood.
- Sambal petai: This sambal is made with chili peppers, fermented beans, and shrimp paste. It is a pungent and flavorful sambal that is often used as a condiment for noodles and rice dishes.
Conclusion
Sambal is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can be used to add a touch of Southeast Asia to any dish. If you are looking for a new way to spice up your cooking, I encourage you to try sambal.
Article curated by Naw Eh Wai Htoo
