Sambal goreng ati - liver chili paste

sambal_goreng_ati_-_liver_chili_paste

Indonesia is a country that offers a diverse range of flavors and cuisines that can satisfy even the most demanding palates. Among the many savory dishes that the country is known for, Sambal Goreng Ati or liver chili paste is one of the most popular and exquisite dishes that food enthusiasts can enjoy. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors that give your taste buds a kick with each bite.

Sambal Goreng Ati is a recipe that is believed to originate from Java, an Island in Indonesia, characterized by its rich culture and history. The dish is traditionally served during special occasions and ceremonies making it one of the most celebrated delicacies in the country. A classic Sambal Goreng Ati consists of chicken liver, which is sauteed using traditional Indonesian spices and blended with chili paste to give it a sweet and spicy flavor.

The recipe not only is delicious, but it is also healthy as it consists of liver, one of the most nutrient-dense parts of the chicken. Chicken liver is an excellent source of Iron, Vitamin A, and Vitamin B12, and it is believed to boost energy and promote brain function. It is, therefore, an excellent meal for individuals who want to have a tasty and energizing dish.

Preparing Sambal Goreng Ati takes about 30-40 minutes and requires ingredients such as garlic, shallots, chili, tamarind, bay leaves, and fresh kaffir lime leaves to give it a distinctive aroma and taste. A good Sambal Goreng Ati should be spicy, flavorful, with a slight sour taste from the tamarind.

The first step in making Sambal Goreng Ati is to marinate chicken liver with a mix of turmeric and salt. The liver is then deep-fried until it turns golden brown. Next, a blend of garlic, shallots, and chili is sauteed together with bay leaves, tamarind, and kaffir lime leaves. The deep-fried liver is then added to the sauteed mixture, and the whole mixture is cooked until it reaches the desired consistency. The final step is to add palm sugar to the dish, giving it a sweet taste as it blends with the spicy and sour flavors.

Sambal Goreng Ati can be served with white rice, shredded vegetables, and sambal terasi (shrimp paste) to provide a balance of flavors that complement each other. The potent aroma and taste make this dish perfect for sharing with friends and family during special occasions, making it a staple in Indonesian Cuisine.

Despite it being a classic Indonesian dish, Sambal Goreng Ati has also become popular in neighboring countries, such as Malaysia and Singapore, and is a hit among food aficionados worldwide. It is easy to make and can be modified to suit one’s taste preferences by adjusting the spiciness of the chili paste or the sweetness of the palm sugar.

In conclusion, the Sambal Goreng Ati or liver chili paste is a beloved Indonesian dish that excites the taste buds with its exquisite blend of flavors. It is a healthy, hearty, and filling meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day for its nutritious benefits. So why not try this popular Indonesian delicacy and indulge in a unique culinary experience that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

  • 500g chicken liver, cut into small pieces
  • 8 red chili peppers, seeded and sliced
  • 4 shallots, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tsp palm sugar
  • 2 tbsp tamarind juice
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves, sliced thinly
  • 2 tbsp fried shallots

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Saute the shallots and garlic until fragrant.

  2. Add the sliced red chili peppers and turmeric powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant and the chili peppers slightly soften.

  3. Add the chicken liver and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the liver is cooked through and no longer pink.

  4. Add the water, salt, palm sugar, and tamarind juice. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  5. Add the sliced kaffir lime leaves and fried shallots. Stir well to combine.

  6. Serve the sambal goreng ati hot with steamed rice or as a side dish. Garnish with additional sliced chili peppers and fried shallots if desired. Enjoy!