Spicy Sambal Shrimp is a bold and fiery seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with the rich, umami-packed flavors of sambal sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and pairs well with rice or noodles, making it a perfect weeknight meal for spice lovers.
Origin of the Dish
Sambal is a popular chili-based condiment in Indonesian, Malaysian, and Singaporean cuisine. It’s made from a blend of chili peppers, garlic, shallots, and other aromatic ingredients. Spicy Sambal Shrimp is a classic Southeast Asian dish that highlights the region’s love for heat and deep flavors.
Why It’s Loved
- Packed with bold, spicy, and savory flavors.
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes.
- Perfectly pairs with steamed rice or noodles.
- A great way to enjoy seafood with a spicy twist.
Also Read : Bitter Melon Stir Fry With Pork
Spicy Sambal Shrimp
Course: Recipes4
servings20
minutes30
minutes300
kcalIngredients
300g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
2 tbsp sambal oelek (adjust to spice preference)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce (optional, for extra umami)
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
2 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small shallot (finely chopped)
½ tsp ginger (grated)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce – In a small bowl, mix sambal oelek, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and honey. Set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp – Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic, shallots, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add Shrimp – Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Coat with Sauce – Pour the sambal sauce over the shrimp, stirring well to coat. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve – Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or noodles.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, use grilled shrimp instead of pan-fried.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra texture.
- Adjust the sambal oelek quantity to your spice tolerance.
