Sambal Matah Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes  

   Prep Time: 15 minutes

Sambal Matah Ingredients

Sambal Matah Instructions

  1. Peel and thinly slice the shallots and garlic, keeping the slices as even as possible for consistent texture.
  2. Remove the stems from the bird's eye chilies and thinly slice them into rings; adjust the amount if you prefer less heat.
  3. Trim the lemongrass stalks to use only the white part, then finely slice them into very thin rings.
  4. Stack the kaffir lime leaves, roll them tightly, and slice them into fine shreds.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced shallots, garlic, chilies, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves.
  6. Add the crumbled toasted shrimp paste, sea salt, and granulated sugar to the bowl with the aromatics.
  7. Mix all the ingredients in the bowl thoroughly with your hands or a spoon to evenly distribute the flavors.
  8. Heat the coconut oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until it is just smoking.
  9. Carefully pour the hot coconut oil over the mixed aromatics in the bowl, making sure to cover all the ingredients.
  10. Stir the mixture immediately to combine the hot oil with the aromatics, slightly wilting them and releasing their fragrance.
  11. Squeeze the juice of the key limes (or regular lime) over the sambal and add the chopped coriander leaves.
  12. Mix everything together one final time until the sambal is glossy and well combined, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Estimated Calories: 45, Servings: 4

Recommended Dishes

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, I always make sure to pop my sambal matah into an airtight container as soon as I'm done making it. The best way to keep it fresh and delicious is to store it in the fridge, where it stays nice and cool. I've found that this easy step really helps preserve the vibrant flavors, and it's a great trick if you want to have a quick, healthy condiment ready for your next meal. Sometimes, I even make a double batch because it's so fast to whip up and store for later.Shelf life is something I pay close attention to, especially with a recipe as fresh as sambal matah. In my experience, it's good for about three to four days in the refrigerator before it starts to lose its punch. I always give it a quick sniff and a little taste before serving, just to make sure it's still at its best. If I'm planning a big meal, I try to make it the day before, so it's still super fresh and the flavors are at their peak-nothing beats that delicious, just-made taste.Spoilage signs are pretty easy to spot with sambal matah, which is a relief because I never want to risk serving anything less than great. If I notice any off smells, a slimy texture, or a dull color, I know it's time to toss it and make a new batch. It's such a fast and easy recipe that I never feel bad about starting over, and I always want my food to be as healthy and tasty as possible. Keeping an eye out for these signs helps me serve up the best version every time.

Sambal Matah FAQ

Oh, I absolutely love making this delicious Balinese classic! When I first tried a homemade Sambal Matah recipe, I was blown away by how easy and quick it was to whip up something so tasty and authentic. The best part? You only need a handful of simple ingredients, and you can tweak the recipe to suit your own taste. Let me share some of my favorite FAQs about changing up this perfect Balinese Sambal Matah recipe, just in case you want to experiment a little!
Can I swap out the shallots in the recipe for something else?Absolutely! If you don't have shallots on hand, red onions work as a great substitute. They still give that punchy flavor, and it keeps the recipe easy and quick. I've even tried using sweet onions for a milder, but still delicious, twist.
What if I want my Sambal Matah less spicy?No worries! The best thing about this Balinese recipe is how flexible it is. Just use fewer chilies, or remove the seeds for a milder, yet still tasty, version. I've done this when making it for friends who aren't big on heat, and it's always a hit.
Can I add other ingredients to make it my own?Oh, for sure! I love tossing in a bit of lemongrass or even a squeeze of lime for extra zing. Some people add a touch of shrimp paste for a more authentic flavor, but honestly, the best homemade Sambal Matah is the one you enjoy most. Play around and see what works for you!
Is there a way to make this recipe even quicker?Definitely! If you're in a rush, you can use a food processor to chop the ingredients. It's not the most traditional method, but it's a lifesaver when you want that perfect, easy, and quick Balinese Sambal Matah on the table fast.
How do I keep my Sambal Matah fresh?Great question! I usually store my homemade batch in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays tasty for a couple of days, and the flavors actually get even better. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Any tips for making the best, most authentic Sambal Matah?My top tip is to use the freshest ingredients you can find. Fresh chilies, shallots, and lime leaves make all the difference. And don't be afraid to taste as you go-adjust the salt, lime, or oil until it's just right for you. That's how to make the perfect, delicious Balinese Sambal Matah every time!

Sambal Matah Story

I remember this one evening when everything just felt overwhelming. Work was piling up, my friends were all busy, and I was stuck in that weird in between space where nothing seemed to go right. I was scrolling through my phone, looking for something to distract me, when I stumbled upon a recipe that promised a quick and easy way to lift my spirits. I figured, why not give it a shot? Sometimes the best comfort comes from the most unexpected places, and I was desperate for something to break the monotony.
As I started preparing it, I realized how fast the process was, which was a relief because I did not have the energy for anything complicated. The kitchen filled with a delicious aroma, and for the first time that week, I felt a little spark of excitement. It was not just about making food; it was about doing something good for myself, something healthy that did not require a lot of effort. I could not believe how easy it was to put together, and that sense of accomplishment, even from something so simple, made a great difference in my mood.
By the time I sat down to eat, I felt lighter. The first bite was a reminder that even during tough times, small joys can sneak in and surprise you. That meal became my go to comfort whenever life felt too heavy. It was not just about the taste, though it was honestly the best thing I had eaten in days, but about the way it made me feel. Sometimes, a quick and delicious dish is all you need to remind yourself that things can get better, one easy step at a time.

Sambal Matah History

I remember the first time I tried a good sambal matah in Bali, and it was a revelation. The cultural origins of this dish are deeply rooted in Balinese daily life, where food is not just about sustenance but also about ceremony and community. It is fascinating how the Balinese have always valued fresh, raw ingredients, which makes this recipe both healthy and delicious. The best part is how sambal matah is often made in big batches for temple festivals or family gatherings, making it a great way to bring people together. There is something special about how a quick, easy condiment like this can hold so much meaning and tradition.
Over the years, I have seen the recipe for sambal matah evolve in interesting ways. Originally, it was a simple, fast mix of local ingredients, but as Balinese cuisine started to gain international attention, chefs began experimenting with new twists. Some add a touch of oil for a smoother texture, while others throw in extra herbs for a more complex flavor. I think it is amazing how a dish can stay true to its roots while still adapting to modern tastes. The best recipes are the ones that keep the spirit of the original but are not afraid to try something new, making it easy for anyone to enjoy a taste of Bali at home.
One thing I love is seeing how sambal matah has influenced other cuisines, especially in Southeast Asia. It is not uncommon now to find a version of this spicy relish served alongside grilled meats or seafood in restaurants far from Bali. I have even seen fusion dishes where sambal matah is used as a topping for tacos or mixed into salads, which is a great example of how a traditional recipe can inspire creativity. It is a good reminder that the best food travels fast, and a delicious, easy-to-make condiment like sambal matah can quickly become a favorite in kitchens around the world.

About Sambal Matah Recipe

I used to think that making an authentic Balinese Sambal Matah recipe at home was a task best left to the pros or, at the very least, to someone with a Balinese grandma. But after trying this easy and quick recipe, I'm officially a convert. The best part? You don't need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients-just a few simple items from your local store and a willingness to chop. If you're skeptical about how to make a homemade sambal that's both tasty and true to its roots, this recipe will change your mind.
Let's talk about flavor. This Balinese classic is all about freshness and zing, and the combination of shallots, lemongrass, chili, and lime makes for a deliciously vibrant condiment. I was surprised by how the right tips-like slicing the ingredients super thin and using the perfect amount of oil-can make all the difference. The result is a quick, easy, and authentic sambal that's bursting with taste. It's the best way to add a punch to grilled meats, rice, or even eggs. Who knew something so simple could be so perfect?
If you're still on the fence, let me assure you: this is the best homemade sambal matah recipe for skeptics and foodies alike. The ingredients are straightforward, the process is easy, and the results are nothing short of delicious. With a few tips and a little practice, you'll master how to make this tasty Balinese condiment in no time. Trust me, once you try this quick and authentic recipe, you'll wonder why you ever settled for anything less than homemade perfection.