Last Updated on December 28, 2023
Sambal terasi is a traditional Indonesian condiment, made with chili peppers, terasi (shrimp paste) and other spices. It’s a flavorful and spicy accompaniment to many dishes, especially seafood. Lemon cui calamansi is a popular variation of sambal terasi that combines the classic flavors of sambal terasi with the brightness of citrus. This fiery condiment is sure to add an extra kick of flavor to your meal.
What is sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi?
“Sambal” is indeed an Indonesian loanword derived from the Javanese language. It refers to a spicy condiment or sauce widely used in Indonesian and Southeast Asian cuisines. It is a traditional Indonesian condiment made with chili peppers, terasi (shrimp paste), and other spices. Unlike regular sambal terasi, this variation includes the addition of calamansi, a type of small citrus fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. The calamansi adds a hint of sweetness and a bright, tangy flavor that compliments the spicy and savory flavors of the sambal terasi.
What does it taste like?
Sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi has a complex flavor profile that combines the spicy and savory notes of the chili peppers and terasi with the bright, tart flavor of the calamansi. The chili peppers provide a mild heat that is balanced out by the sweetness of the calamansi. The terasi adds a distinct umami flavor that rounds out the dish. The result is a flavorful condiment that is sure to add an extra kick to any meal.
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Ingredients
- Juice from ripe calamansi fruits: Calamansi juice brings a tangy and citrusy flavor to the sambal. It adds a refreshing and slightly sour note to balance the other flavors in the dish.
- Sun-dried shrimp paste (terasi): Shrimp paste is a common ingredient in Indonesian cuisine and adds a savory, umami-rich flavor to the sambal. It contributes depth and complexity to the overall taste profile.
- Salt to taste (as needed for flavor balance): Salt is a crucial ingredient in cooking as it helps to enhance and balance the flavors of the other ingredients. It’s added here to ensure the sambal has the right seasoning.
- Vibrant red cayenne peppers: Cayenne peppers bring heat and spiciness to the sambal. They provide a fiery kick that adds intensity and heat to the dish.
- Fiery bird’s eye chilies: Bird’s eye chilies are known for their high level of spiciness. They intensify the heat of the sambal, providing a strong punch of spice to the overall flavor.
- Ripe tomatoes, finely diced: Tomatoes add a subtle sweetness and acidity to the sambal. They also contribute a mellowing effect to the overall spiciness and help balance the flavors, complementing the citrusy notes from the calamansi.
Directions
STEP 1: Prepare the Chilies
- Ingredients: Cayenne peppers, bird’s eye chilies
- Process:
- Remove stems from both types of chilies.
- Slice them lengthwise and deseed for a milder sambal.
- Tip: Wear gloves while handling chilies to prevent skin irritation.
STEP 2: Grind Chilies and Shrimp Paste
- Ingredients: Sun-dried shrimp paste
- Tools: Mortar and pestle or food processor
- Process:
- Grind the chilies into a coarse paste.
- Gradually add sun-dried shrimp paste while grinding until well combined.
STEP 3: Combine Ingredients
- Ingredients: Finely diced tomatoes, ripe calamansi fruits
- Process:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chili and shrimp paste mixture.
- Squeeze the juice from ripe calamansi fruits into the bowl, removing any seeds.
- Mix everything thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.
STEP 4: Seasoning
- Ingredients: Salt
- Process:
- Gradually add salt to the mixture, tasting as you go.
- Remember, shrimp paste is already salty, so add salt cautiously.
STEP 5: Adjust Consistency
- Ingredients: Water or additional calamansi juice
- Process:
- If the sambal is too thick, add a little water or more calamansi juice.
- Stir well until you achieve the desired consistency.
STEP 6: Store or Serve
- Process:
- Transfer the prepared Sambal Terasi Lemon Cui Calamansi into a clean, airtight jar or container.
- Store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together and enhance over time.
STEP 7: Enjoy
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this zesty sambal as a condiment alongside rice, grilled meats, vegetables, or any dish that could benefit from a spicy and tangy kick!
Tips
– Use fresh chili peppers for the best flavor.
– Add more calamansi if you want a brighter flavor.
– Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– Stir the sambal terasi frequently to prevent it from burning.
– Let the sambal terasi cool completely before serving.
Nutrition Information
One serving of sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi (1/4 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 79
– Total Fat: 4.2g
– Total Carbohydrates: 8.5g
– Dietary Fiber: 0.9g
– Protein: 1.8g
What to serve with sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi recipe?
Sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi is a great accompaniment to many dishes, especially seafood. Here are some ideas for how to serve this condiment:
– Fish: Serve sambal terasi with grilled or pan-fried fish.
– Shrimp: This spicy condiment is delicious with grilled or fried shrimp.
– Rice: Serve sambal terasi with steamed white or brown rice.
– Noodles: Serve sambal terasi with stir-fried noodles or udon noodles.
– Eggs: This condiment is great with poached, boiled, or fried eggs.
How to store leftover sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi recipe?
Leftover sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
What other substitute can I use in sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi recipe?
If you don’t have calamansi, you can use other types of citrus fruits, such as limes or lemons. You can also add a bit of honey or sugar to help balance out the flavors.
Equipment
- Blender
- bowel
Ingredients
- 12 teaspoons of sun-dried shrimp paste
- 16 fiery bird’s eye chilies
- Salt to taste as needed for flavor balance
- Juice from 24 ripe calamansi fruits
- 40 vibrant red cayenne peppers
- 8 ripe tomatoes finely diced
Instructions
STEP 1- Prepare the Chilies:
- Remove stems from both the cayenne peppers and bird’s eye chilies.
- Slice them in half lengthwise and deseed them if you prefer a milder sambal.
- Wear gloves while handling chilies to avoid skin irritation.
STEP 2 – Grind Chilies and Shrimp Paste:
- Using a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the chilies into a coarse paste.
- Add sun-dried shrimp paste gradually, continuing to grind until well combined.
STEP 3 – Combine Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chili and shrimp paste mixture with the finely diced tomatoes.
- Squeeze the juice from the ripe calamansi fruits into the bowl. Discard any seeds.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
STEP 4 – Seasoning:
- Gradually add salt to the mixture, tasting as you go to achieve the desired balance of flavors. Remember, the shrimp paste is already salty, so add salt cautiously.
STEP 5 – Adjust Consistency:
- If the sambal is too thick, you can add a little water or more calamansi juice to reach the desired consistency. Stir well.
STEP 6 – Store or Serve:
- Transfer the sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi into a clean, airtight jar or container.
- Store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together over time, enhancing the taste.
STEP 7 – Enjoy:
- Serve this zesty sambal as a condiment with rice, grilled meats, vegetables, or any dish that could use a spicy and tangy kick!
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi last?
Sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
2. Can I freeze sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi?
Yes, you can freeze sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use other types of citrus fruits in sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi?
Yes, you can use other types of citrus fruits, such as limes or lemons, instead of calamansi.
4. What type of oil should I use for sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi?
Any type of neutral-flavored oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, will work.
5. Can I make sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi without terasi?
Yes, you can omit the terasi if you don’t like the flavor.
6. How spicy is sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi?
The spiciness of sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi depends on the type and amount of chili peppers used. The dish can range from mild to very spicy.
7. Can I make sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sambal terasi ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Sambal terasi lemon cui calamansi is a flavorful and spicy condiment that is sure to add an extra kick to any meal. This traditional Indonesian dish combines the spicy and savory flavors of chili peppers and terasi with the bright, tart flavor of calamansi. It is great with many types of dishes, especially seafood. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this fiery condiment in no time.