Sambal matah - raw chili dip
Indonesia is home to countless delicious dishes, with a variety of spices and flavors that are second to none. One such dish that captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine is the Sambal Matah, a raw chili dip that is sure to awaken your taste buds.
Sambal Matah is native to the island of Bali and is made with fresh chili peppers blended with a variety of aromatic and flavor-rich ingredients. The dip is known for its fiery kick and is typically served as a side accompaniment to grilled or fried seafood, poultry, or meat.
The key to a delicious Sambal Matah is the use of fresh and high-quality ingredients. The recipe calls for red onion, lemongrass, garlic, and lime juice, which are combined with the fresh red and green chili peppers into a mouth-watering dip.
The dish is famous for its spiciness, and the heat level can vary based on the type of chili used. The most common chili used for Sambal Matah is the bird’s eye chili, which is small, red, and extremely spicy. However, adjustment of the heat level according to one’s taste is possible.
Sambal Matah’s unique taste is derived from the combination of its ingredients. Lemongrass lends its fragrance, while garlic offers a pungent flavor that balances out the spiciness. Meanwhile, the tangy taste of lime juice adds a refreshing note. The combination of these ingredients creates a deliciously complex dip that is perfect for any savory dish.
To make a tasty Sambal Matah, all ingredients should be finely chopped, and the chili peppers crushed before they are mixed together. The dip can be eaten immediately or stored for up to two weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Sambal Matah is a very versatile dish that pairs well with almost any type of meat, seafood, or vegetable. It is typically served with grilled fish, chicken satay, and beef rendang. The dip also complements nasi campur, a traditional Indonesian mixed rice dish, and lends an aromatic flavor to the stir-fried vegetables.
With its bold flavors and fiery kick, Sambal Matah is quickly gaining popularity worldwide. It is an excellent addition to any table, especially for people who love spicy food. Using fresh ingredients, it is easy to create and can be adjusted to one’s specific heat and taste preference.
In conclusion, Sambal Matah is a traditional Indonesian dip that captures the essence of the country’s cuisine. It is a fiery, fresh, and flavorful condiment made with raw chili peppers and a variety of aromatic ingredients. The dish is famous for its spiciness, versatility and pairs well with almost any food. With its unique flavors and spicy kick, Sambal Matah is sure to become a staple in your home kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 10-12 red chili peppers, sliced thinly
- 5 shallots, sliced thinly
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons of shrimp paste
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of grated coconut
Instructions:
- In a mortar, mix the chili peppers, shallots, garlic, shrimp paste, and salt.
- Grind the ingredients until they turn into a paste.
- Heat the coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the paste, and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove from heat, and let it cool down.
- Add the lime juice and grated coconut.
- Stir until well combined.
- Serve as a dipping sauce for grilled meats, vegetables, or fried snacks.
Enjoy your sambal matah!