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Sambal oelek is stocked in most large supermarkets now, usually near the other chilli sauces and pastes.
Which aisle is sambal oelek in?
Sambal oelek is in the world food aisle, in the Asian or Southeast Asian section next to sriracha and other chilli sauces.
Where to look, supermarket by supermarket
- World food aisle, Asian section. Jarred next to sriracha and other chilli sauces.
- Some larger stores shelve it with the condiments rather than world foods.
Aisle numbers move between branches, so use the section as your guide.
Where sambal oelek is in Tesco
Tesco stocks a jarred sambal oelek in the world food aisle, usually near the Thai and Indonesian ingredients.
What to ask a member of staff
Ask for sambal oelek by name, since it is a specific product rather than a generic chilli paste.
Asian supermarkets
An Indonesian, Malaysian or general Asian grocer will carry a wider range of brands and sizes than a UK supermarket.
Buying it online
It keeps well, so buying a larger jar online makes sense if you cook Southeast Asian food regularly.
Storing it
Keep the jar in the fridge once opened. It keeps for months thanks to the vinegar and salt content.
Frequently asked questions
Is sambal oelek the same as chilli paste?
It is a type of chilli paste, but a specific one made mainly from crushed chillies, vinegar and salt, without the garlic or sugar some other pastes include.
Can I substitute another chilli sauce?
Sriracha or a Chinese chilli paste both work as a substitute, though the flavour will be sweeter or more complex.
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- Sambal oelek. A straightforward chilli paste for cooking and condiments.
