Sambal terong - eggplant chili paste
Indonesia is a country that is well known for its diverse cuisine that has influenced many parts of the world. One of the most popular Indonesian dishes is sambal terong or eggplant chili paste. This spicy condiment is a staple in many Indonesian households and can be found in restaurants throughout the country.
Sambal terong is made by blending chili peppers, garlic, shallots, and eggplants together, creating a thick paste that is then spiced with salt, sugar, and vinegar. The combination of flavors is what makes sambal terong a popular choice among Indonesian people. The traditional use of eggplants in the recipe also contributes to its rich flavor by providing a smoky and earthy essence to the dish.
This dish may seem simple to make, but the spices and combinations of flavors can be tricky to master. Finding the right balance is key to achieving the perfect taste that is expected of a good sambal terong. This popular condiment is typically served as a condiment for grilled meats or fish, and is often eaten with steamed rice, making it a tasty and comforting meal for the average Indonesian.
The ingredients that make up the sambal terong recipe are straightforward and can be found easily in local supermarkets or farmer’s markets. The main ingredients include red chili peppers, garlic, shallots, eggplants, sugar, vinegar, and salt. In some variations, tomatoes or lime juice are included in the recipe to enhance the flavors even further.
The preparation of sambal terong involves roasting the eggplants until the skin is charred and easily removable. The roasted eggplants are then blended together with the other ingredients until a smooth paste is formed. The paste is then cooked over low heat to reduce moisture and thicken the sauce. Finally, it is seasoned with salt, sugar, and vinegar to achieve a balanced taste.
While sambal terong is typically served as a condiment, it is also versatile enough to be used as a base for other dishes. It can be used as a marinade for meats or seafood, as a dipping sauce for vegetables or fried foods, or as a topping for noodles or rice dishes. The spicy and tangy flavors of sambal terong make it a great addition to any Indonesian meal.
In addition to its delicious taste, sambal terong is also packed with health benefits. The eggplant in the recipe provides a range of vitamins and minerals such as fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. The chili peppers are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and are high in capsaicin, a compound that has been linked to reducing the risk of certain diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Overall, sambal terong is a flavorful Indonesian dish that is easy to make and can be used in many different ways. This versatile condiment is loved by many in Indonesia and has become increasingly popular around the world due to its unique taste and health benefits.
Ingredients:
- 5-6 small eggplants
- 6-8 red chili peppers
- 5-6 shallots
- 5-6 garlic cloves
- 1 tomato
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of sugar
- 1 tbsp of lime juice
Instructions:
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Preheat an oven to 400°F. Wash and rub some oil over the eggplants. Roast the eggplants for around 20 minutes or until cooked through.
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While the eggplants are roasting, prepare other ingredients. Slice the shallots, garlic, chili peppers and tomato.
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Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat
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Add the sliced shallots, garlic and chili peppers. Saute until they are golden brown.
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Add sliced tomato and cook until it turns soft.
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Remove the roasted eggplants from the oven and let them cool down. Peel the skin and discard the stem. Roughly chop the flesh.
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Add chopped eggplants to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes.
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Season with salt, sugar, and lime juice.
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Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down.
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Once the mixture has cooled down, blend the mixture until smooth.
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Transfer the sambal terong to a jar and store it in the fridge.
Serve sambal terong as a condiment with rice, noodles, veggies or any Indonesian dish of your choice. Enjoy!