The Asian Larder

What Is Sambal Oelek?

Sambal oelek is a simple Indonesian chilli paste made from little more than crushed red chillies, vinegar and salt. Unlike sriracha, it has no garlic or sugar added, giving it a cleaner, more direct chilli heat.

How to use it

FAQ

How hot is sambal oelek?

Fairly hot and direct, since there is nothing to soften the chilli, so start with a small amount.

Is sambal oelek the same as sriracha?

No, sriracha includes garlic, sugar and vinegar for a sweeter, milder sauce, while sambal oelek is closer to pure chilli.

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  • Sambal oelek. A straightforward chilli paste for cooking and condiments.
Huì

Huì

Huì is a Beijing-born chef working in the UK. She writes The Asian Larder, with tested Asian recipes for British home cooks and honest advice on where to buy every ingredient.
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