Malaysian Sambal: Varieties and How to Use Them

Malaysian sambal comes in many forms. Sambal belacan combines chillies with fermented shrimp paste (belacan)—toasted first to mellow the funk. It's used as a condiment and a base for stir-fries and vegetable dishes.

Sambal oelek is a simple chilli paste; sambal tumis is cooked with onions and tamarind for a sweeter, tangier result. Bottled sambals are convenient; look for brands with a short ingredient list and no artificial colours.

Use sambal to top noodles, rice, and grilled fish, or stir a spoonful into soups and curries. Start with a little and add more to taste—heat levels vary by brand.