Indonesian Sambal Goreng is a bold, spicy-sweet stir-fry inspired by traditional flavors from Indonesia. This vibrant dish combines chili heat with savory aromatics for a fast, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect over rice, noodles, or alongside grilled meats.
Ingredients:
For chili paste (Sambal)
- 2 stalk lemongrass
- 2-4 chilies Magic Plant Farm’s Scorpion Dried Pepper Pods
- 1 medium red onion roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic
Other ingredients
- ½ block tofu drained, pressed and cubed (200g/7oz)
- 1 block tempeh cubed (225g/8oz)
- 1 cup grean beans cut into 2 inches pieces (150g/5oz)
- ½ cup coconut milk (125ml)
- 1 teaspoon tamarind paste optional, but highly recommended
- 1 teaspoon Psycho Soy Sauce
- t teaspoon Sugar
- salt to taste
Instructions:
- Remove the tough outer layer of the lemongrass until you reach the tender inner white core.
- In a food processor, add all ingredients needed for sambal. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrap down the sides. You might need to add a splash of water if the mixture is not blending well.
- Add 2-4 Magic Plant Farm’s Scorpion Dried Pepper Pods,1 medium red onion,3 cloves garlic
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Arrange in 1 layer, then pan-fry tofu and tempeh for 2-3 minutes on each side or until most sides are golden. Set aside.
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan, and add your chili paste. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
- Add coconut milk, Psycho Soy Sauce, sugar, and tamarind paste to the pan.
- Once the mixture starts to simmer, toss in pan-fried tofu, tempeh, and green beans.
- Simmer for 5-8 minutes or until the green beans are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Give it a taste, adding salt to taste.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Indonesian Sambal Goreng
How spicy is Sambal Goreng?
It’s typically medium to hot, depending on the type and amount of chili used. You can easily adjust the heat to suit your taste.
What does “sambal goreng” mean?
“Sambal” refers to chili paste, and “goreng” means fried or stir-fried—together describing a spicy stir-fried dish built around chili flavor.
What can I serve with Sambal Goreng?
It’s delicious over steamed rice or noodles and pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Sambal Goreng keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Absolutely. Add vegetables, protein like shrimp or chicken, or extra aromatics to create your own version of this spicy classic.
