Sambal Udang Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes  

   Prep Time: 15 minutes

Sambal Udang Ingredients

Sambal Udang Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, peel and devein them, then pat dry with paper towels and set aside.
  2. In a food processor, combine the red onion, garlic, lemongrass, ginger, red Fresno chilies, and Thai bird's eye chilies. Blend until a smooth paste forms, scraping down the sides as needed.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat until shimmering.
  4. Add the spice paste to the pan and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.
  5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the color and flavor.
  6. Add the tamarind paste, palm sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, ground white pepper, and sea salt. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes until the sugar dissolves.
  7. Pour in the coconut milk and water, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  8. Add the cleaned shrimp to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly in the sauce.
  9. Cook the shrimp for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
  10. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, fish sauce, or sugar as needed. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir to combine.
  11. Transfer the Sambal Udang to a serving dish and garnish with finely chopped cilantro before serving.

Estimated Calories: 210, Servings: 4

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Healthy Sambal Udang Tips

If you're on a quest for the best, most delicious, and healthy Sambal Udang recipe, you're in the right place! Let's face it, we all want to enjoy that authentic Indonesian Chinese flavor without feeling like we need to run a marathon afterward. The secret to a healthier homemade Sambal Udang lies in the ingredients. Swap out the usual oil for a lighter option like olive or avocado oil, and don't be shy with the veggies-bell peppers, snap peas, or even a handful of spinach can sneak in extra vitamins without anyone noticing. Trust me, your health (and your taste buds) will thank you for this simple, tasty upgrade.
Now, let's talk about how to make this easy and quick recipe even better for your health. Instead of deep-frying the shrimp, try grilling or lightly sautéing them. This keeps all the flavor but ditches the extra calories. Want to know the best tips for a perfect, healthy Sambal Udang? Use fresh, high-quality ingredients and go easy on the sugar and salt. You'll still get that bold, authentic taste, but your heart will be doing a happy dance. Plus, you'll have more energy to whip up another batch-because let's be honest, one serving is never enough.
Finally, don't forget the power of portion control and mindful eating. The best homemade Sambal Udang recipe isn't just about what goes into the pan, but also how you enjoy it. Serve it with brown rice or cauliflower rice for an extra health boost, and savor every bite. Share your own tips for making this Indonesian Chinese classic healthier in the comments-let's build a community of health-conscious, sambal-loving foodies! After all, the journey to the perfect, healthy, and tasty Sambal Udang is always better when shared.

About Sambal Udang Recipe

If you're on the hunt for the best, most delicious way to spice up your dinner, look no further than this Indonesian Chinese Sambal Udang recipe. This dish is the perfect blend of spicy, savory, and just a hint of sweetness, making it a favorite among those who love bold flavors. The best part? It's surprisingly easy and quick to whip up at home, even if your kitchen skills are more "microwave popcorn" than "MasterChef." With just a few simple ingredients, you'll learn how to make a homemade sambal that'll have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
The secret to an authentic Sambal Udang lies in the fresh ingredients and the right balance of heat and flavor. You'll need juicy shrimp, fiery chilies, garlic, shallots, and a few other pantry staples to create this tasty masterpiece. Don't worry if you're not a spice warrior-there are tips for dialing the heat up or down, so you can make it perfect for your palate. This recipe is not only quick and easy, but it's also a great way to impress your friends with your knowledge of Indonesian Chinese cuisine. Who knew you could become a sambal superstar in under 30 minutes?
For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, this homemade Sambal Udang recipe is a must-try. It's simple enough for beginners, yet delivers that authentic, restaurant-quality flavor everyone craves. Want to know how to make it even better? Try adding a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of fried shallots for extra zing. With these tasty tips and the best ingredients, you'll have the perfect dish every time. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your wok, and get ready to enjoy the most delicious Indonesian Chinese Sambal Udang you've ever tasted!

Sambal Udang Pairings

When you think about the best flavors to complement a meal, the vibrant and bold notes of Southeast Asia come to mind. Imagine the delicious tang of lime, the aromatic punch of lemongrass, and the subtle sweetness of palm sugar. These flavors are not just good, they are transformative, turning any dish into a celebration. If you are looking for a quick way to elevate your dining experience, try adding a squeeze of fresh citrus or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. It is an easy and healthy way to bring out the complexity in your favorite recipes, making every bite a journey worth savoring.
No meal is truly complete without the right side, and for a dish with such character, you want something that can hold its own. A great choice is a simple stir-fried morning glory or water spinach, tossed with garlic and a touch of soy. This side is not only fast to prepare but also incredibly healthy, offering a crisp texture and a clean, green flavor that balances the richness of your main course. For those who love to experiment, a quick cucumber and shallot pickle can add a refreshing crunch, making your meal feel both light and satisfying. These sides are the best way to round out your table, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy.
Pairing the right drink can turn a good meal into an unforgettable one. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled glass of jasmine tea or a tangy tamarind cooler is a delicious and easy match, cutting through spice and refreshing your palate. If you are in the mood for something a bit more festive, a crisp lager or a light white wine can be a great companion, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. Whether you are hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, these drinks are a fast and simple way to elevate your dining experience, making every recipe feel like a special occasion.

Sambal Udang Quick Mistake Fixes

When it comes to Sambal Udang, achieving the best balance of flavors is essential for a truly delicious experience. Sometimes, the dish can turn out too salty, which can overpower the natural sweetness of the prawns and the vibrant heat of the sambal. A good way to fix this quickly is to add a splash of lime juice or a handful of chopped tomatoes, which can help mellow out the saltiness and bring a fresh, healthy brightness to the plate. This easy adjustment ensures that every bite is both satisfying and well rounded, making your meal feel like a great success.
Overcooking is a common pitfall that can make even the best Sambal Udang lose its appeal. Prawns are delicate and cook very fast, so it is important to keep a close eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture. If you find that your prawns have become overcooked, a quick fix is to toss them with a bit of coconut milk or a drizzle of good quality oil just before serving. This not only restores some moisture but also adds a rich, silky finish that makes the dish feel more luxurious and inviting, turning a potential mishap into a great, crowd pleasing meal.
The appearance of Sambal Udang plays a big role in how appetizing it feels. A dull or muddled presentation can make even the most delicious recipe seem less appealing. For a fast and easy upgrade, garnish with fresh herbs or thinly sliced chilies to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This simple touch not only makes the dish look more vibrant and healthy but also invites everyone to dig in, promising a meal that is as beautiful as it is tasty.

Sambal Udang Story

There was a season in my life when everything seemed to shift at once. I had just moved to a new city, started a demanding job, and felt the weight of unfamiliarity pressing in from all sides. One evening, after a particularly challenging day, I remembered a recipe from home that always promised a sense of belonging. I was surprised by how easy it was to gather the ingredients and how fast the process felt, even as my mind raced with worries. In that small kitchen, the act of preparing something familiar became a lifeline, a reminder that comfort could be found in the most unexpected places.
As I sat down to eat, the first bite brought an immediate sense of relief. It was as if the world slowed down, just for a moment, allowing me to breathe and reset. The dish was not only delicious but also healthy, which made me feel good about taking care of myself during a time when self care often fell by the wayside. I realized that sometimes the best remedies for stress are the ones that connect us to our roots, offering both nourishment and nostalgia in one great meal.
Since then, I have shared this quick and easy recipe with friends who are going through their own transitions. Each time, I see the same look of surprise and comfort on their faces, and it reminds me of how food can bridge gaps and heal hearts. If you are searching for something that is more than just a meal, I invite you to try this for yourself. You might just discover that the best comfort comes from the simplest, most heartfelt traditions.