Sambal Belacan
An essential and vibrant Malaysian chili condiment, Sambal Belacan is characterized by its pungent aroma and spicy kick, derived from fresh chilies and fermented shrimp paste (belacan). It's a staple served with rice dishes, grilled meats, and seafood.
🧂 Ingredients
- 10-15 Fresh red chilies (e.g., bird's eye chilies for heat, or larger red chilies for milder flavor)(Adjust quantity and type based on desired spice level. Remove seeds for less heat.)
- 1 tablespoon Belacan (dried shrimp paste)(This is a key ingredient with a strong, pungent aroma. It's typically sold in dried, compressed blocks.)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice(Freshly squeezed is recommended for the best flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar(Balances the heat and saltiness. Granulated or palm sugar can be used.)
- to taste Salt(Enhances all the flavors.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Belacan: Lightly toast the belacan block. This can be done by wrapping it in foil and placing it over a low flame (like a gas stove burner) for about 2-3 minutes per side, or by dry-frying it in a small pan over low heat. The goal is to warm it through until it becomes fragrant and slightly softened, releasing its characteristic aroma. Be cautious as it can become brittle.
⏱️ 3-5 minutes - 2
Prepare the Chilies: Wash the fresh chilies. If you prefer a milder sambal, you can remove the seeds and membranes. For a spicier sambal, leave them in. Roughly chop the chilies.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 3
Pound the Ingredients: In a mortar and pestle, add the toasted belacan and the chopped chilies. Begin pounding them together. Work the pestle in a circular motion, crushing and grinding the ingredients until a coarse paste forms. Continue pounding until you achieve your desired consistency – some prefer it chunky, while others like it smoother.
⏱️ 7-10 minutes - 4
Season the Sambal: Add the lime juice and sugar to the chili-belacan paste. Stir well to combine. Taste the sambal and add salt as needed to enhance the flavors. Mix thoroughly until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Serve: Transfer the sambal belacan to a serving dish. It is best served fresh as a condiment alongside steamed rice, grilled fish, chicken, or vegetables. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using a mortar and pestle is crucial for achieving the authentic texture of sambal belacan. Blending can result in a watery or overly smooth paste.
- ✓Fresh ingredients, especially the chilies and lime juice, make a significant difference in the final taste.
- ✓Belacan has a very strong aroma when toasted and pounded; ensure good ventilation in your kitchen.
- ✓Sambal belacan is a versatile condiment that can be adjusted to your personal preference for spice, sourness, and sweetness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a few slices of shallots or garlic along with the chilies for added depth of flavor.
- Substitute lime juice with calamansi lime juice for a more floral and tart profile.
- For a slightly different texture and flavor, add a small piece of tamarind pulp (soaked in a little water and strained) along with the lime juice.