Delicious and Spicy: Authentic Sambal Padang Recipe to Spice Up Your Meal

Sambal Ijo Padang

Sambal Padang is a traditional Indonesian chili sauce that originates from the Padang region in West Sumatra. Known for its spicy and rich flavors, Sambal Padang is a versatile condiment that can elevate any dish. 

In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make this mouthwatering Sambal Padang at home.

Ingredients:

• 10-15 red chili peppers (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 5 shallots
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 2 tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon of tamarind paste
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of palm sugar or brown sugar (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the chili peppers. Remove the stems and roughly chop them. If you prefer a milder sambal, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the chili peppers as they contain most of the heat. For a spicier version, leave the seeds and membranes intact.

2. Peel the shallots and garlic cloves, then chop them finely.

3. Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and garlic, and sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant.

4. Add the chopped chili peppers to the pan and continue sautéing for a few minutes until they soften.

5. Cut the tomatoes into small pieces and add them to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are fully softened and well combined with the other ingredients.

6. In a small bowl, dissolve the tamarind paste in a little bit of water. Once dissolved, pour the tamarind mixture into the pan and stir well.

7. Season the sambal with salt and palm sugar or brown sugar for a hint of sweetness. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.

8. Continue cooking the sambal for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

9. Remove the pan from the heat and let the sambal cool down. Once cooled, transfer it to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.

10. Your homemade Sambal Padang is now ready to be enjoyed! Transfer it to a clean jar or container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Sambal Padang is a versatile condiment that can complement various Indonesian dishes like Nasi Padang, grilled seafood, or even simple fried rice. Its spicy and tangy flavors add an extra kick to any meal. Remember, you can always adjust the quantity of chili peppers to suit your spice tolerance.

So, next time you're craving for some spicy goodness, try making this authentic Sambal Padang at home. It's not only easy to make but also a surefire way to impress your taste buds!