Sambal Chili Sauce

Name: Sambal Chili Sauce
Cuisine: Indian

Indonesian • Vegan

kcal

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Protein

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Fat

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How to Make Sambal Chili Sauce (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min

Cook: 20 min

2 servings

easy

Sambal Chili Sauce is a vibrant Indonesian condiment celebrated for its bold flavors and versatility. Originating from Indonesia, sambal is a staple in kitchens across Southeast Asia and has gained popularity in India for its fiery, tangy taste that beautifully complements Indian snacks like samosas, pakoras, and even dosa. The sauce combines fresh red chilies, garlic, and tangy lime juice, creating a spicy, aromatic blend that elevates any dish. Its distinct flavor profile—spicy, slightly sweet, and tangy—makes it an exciting addition to both Indian and Indonesian cuisines. Health-conscious Indian food lovers will appreciate sambal's minimal use of oil, natural ingredients, and ability to add flavor without extra calories. Unlike heavy, oil-laden chutneys, sambal is made by pounding or blending fresh chilies with spices, making it a lighter alternative. The sauce is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan, fitting perfectly into modern Indian diets focused on wellness and flavor. Sambal’s lively taste is ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with global flavors while staying true to their health goals. Try pairing sambal chili sauce with grilled paneer, sprouts salad, or steamed momos for an Indian twist on Indonesian flavors.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly Vegan Adaptable

Ingredients(for 2 tablespoons per serving)

8-10 Fresh red chilies (preferably bird's eye or Kashmiri mirch for milder heat)
4 Garlic cloves (peeled)
1 medium Tomato (chopped) - optional
2 tablespoons Lime juice (nimbu ka ras)
1 teaspoon Coconut sugar or jaggery (gur, optional for balance) - optional
1/2 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
1 tablespoon Vinegar (apple cider or rice vinegar)
1 teaspoon Sesame oil (cold-pressed, optional) - optional
2 Shallots (finely chopped, substitute with onion) - optional
1/4 teaspoon Black pepper powder (kali mirch, optional) - optional

Instructions

1
Wash and roughly chop the red chilies, garlic, tomato, and shallots (if using). Remove seeds from chilies for a milder sauce.
5 minutes
Wear gloves while handling fresh chilies to avoid skin irritation.
2
Add chilies, garlic, tomato, shallots, and salt to a mortar and pestle or blender. Pound or blend into a coarse paste.
5 minutes
Traditional pounding enhances flavor; blend for convenience.
3
Transfer the paste to a pan. Add sesame oil and sauté on low flame for 2-3 minutes until aromatic.
3 minutes
Use minimal oil for a healthier version.
4
Add vinegar, lime juice, coconut sugar/jaggery, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5 minutes
Adjust sweetness and acidity to balance the heat.

Why This Dish is Healthy

This sambal chili sauce is a healthy choice as it uses fresh vegetables and spices instead of processed ingredients or excess oil. The natural heat from chilies can boost metabolism, and the absence of preservatives makes it suitable for clean eating. Vinegar and lime juice aid digestion, and the vegetarian, vegan-friendly profile fits modern wellness trends. Ideal for calorie-conscious Indian snack lovers.

Sambal chili sauce is low in calories and fat, making it ideal for weight management. Fresh chilies provide vitamin C, capsaicin for metabolism boost, and antioxidants. Garlic is renowned for its heart-healthy properties, while lime juice offers vitamin C and aids digestion. Minimal oil keeps the sauce light, and optional tomato adds lycopene. Jaggery or coconut sugar offers minerals like iron and potassium. Overall, the sauce delivers flavor and nutrition without excess calories.