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Sambal Spice Blend

Serves about 1/2 cup Spice Mix vegan, Spice Mixes

Sambal Spice Blend

The fiery essence of sambal is woven into the fabric of Indonesian cuisine, a versatile chili condiment that elevates meals across the archipelago. Traditionally, it accompanies an array of dishes, from simple nasi goreng to elaborate feasts. This sambal spice blend is a dry mix, perfect for those who wish to have a quick and easy way to incorporate that quintessential Indonesian heat into their cooking.

This blend strikes a harmonious balance between the heat of chili flakes and the sweetness of palm sugar, underscored by the aromatic depth of garlic and lime leaf. The fine sea salt ties it all together, creating a symphony of flavors that is both bold and vibrant. Sprinkle a touch over grilled meats or stir into a simmering pot of stew, and feel the transformation of any dish into a celebration of Indonesian zest.

Ingredients

  • 3 tbspchili flakes
  • 1 tbspgarlic powder
  • 1 tbsppalm sugar
  • 1 tbspfine sea salt
  • 1 tsplime leaf powder

Method

  1. Start by placing a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of chili flakes to the skillet, spreading them out evenly. Toast the chili flakes, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon, until they release a spicy aroma and deepen in color, which should take a few minutes. Be careful not to burn them, as this will make the blend bitter.
  2. Once the chili flakes are toasted, add 1 tablespoon of garlic powder to the skillet. Continue to stir for another minute until the garlic powder becomes aromatic and slightly golden. This step enhances the flavor profile of the blend by releasing the essential oils in the garlic.
  3. Next, add 1 tablespoon of palm sugar to the skillet. Stir gently until the sugar begins to melt and caramelize, which will add a subtle sweetness and depth to the spice blend. The sugar should become slightly sticky and coat the chili flakes and garlic powder.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of fine sea salt to the skillet, stirring to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The salt will help to balance the flavors and preserve the blend.
  5. Finally, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of lime leaf powder. Stir the mixture until the lime leaf powder is fully integrated, adding a citrusy note that complements the heat of the chili flakes.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the spice mixture to a plate to cool completely. This prevents further cooking and ensures the flavors are locked in.
  7. Once cooled, grind the mixture in a spice grinder or combine it thoroughly in a bowl to ensure even distribution of all ingredients. The blend should have a uniform texture and color.
  8. Transfer the Sambal Spice Blend to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark place. This will help maintain its potency and flavor.
  9. For optimal aroma and taste, use the spice blend within a few months. This ensures that the spices remain fresh and vibrant, enhancing your dishes with authentic Indonesian flavors.
Cover of Authentic Indonesian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Indonesian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Indonesian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Indonesian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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