Authentic Sambal Terasi from Java — traditional Indonesian snack with step-by-step cooking instructions

Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce

★★★★☆4.5
|Editor's rating

Sambal Terasi is a fiery Indonesian chili sauce made with fresh chilies, shrimp paste, and lime. It's the essential condiment for any Indonesian meal.

🗺️ Origin: Java⏱ Time: 15 mins👥 Servings: 4 porsi📊 Difficulty: Easy
📋 Recipe
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Tested by NusantaraEats Kitchen·Last updated: 29 June 2026

📑 In This Guide

🛒 Ingredients👨‍🍳 Instructions FAQ

💡 Did You Know?

This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations, preserving the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 20 red chilies
  • 10 bird's eye chilies
  • 5 shallots
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 tbsp shrimp paste (terasi), toasted
  • 1 tsp palm sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 lime, juiced

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Grind or mortar-pestle all ingredients except lime juice.
  2. Add lime juice and mix well.
  3. Serve fresh as a condiment.

💡 Tips

For the best flavor, char the chilies and shrimp paste before grinding.

📜History & Origin

Cultural Significance

No Indonesian meal is complete without sambal. Terasi gives it the distinctive umami depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce?

Sambal Terasi is a fiery Indonesian chili sauce made with fresh chilies, shrimp paste, and lime. It's the essential condiment for any Indonesian meal.

Where does Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce come from?

Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce originates from Java. No Indonesian meal is complete without sambal. Terasi gives it the distinctive umami depth....

Can I find Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce outside Indonesia?

Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce can be found at Indonesian restaurants and Asian grocery stores in many countries. However, the authentic taste is best experienced in Indonesia. You can also make it at home using the recipe above — many ingredients can be substituted with readily available alternatives.

Is Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce difficult to make?

Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce is rated as easy, making it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

How can I adjust the spiciness of Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce?

The spiciness can be easily adjusted by modifying the amount of chili peppers. For milder versions, reduce or omit the bird's eye chilies (cabe rawit).

How do I store leftover Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce?

Store leftover Sambal Terasi Recipe: Indonesian Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices continue to meld.

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Recipe researched by the NusantaraEats Editorial Team

This recipe has been carefully researched, tested, and documented to preserve authentic Indonesian culinary traditions. Sources include traditional cookbooks, regional culinary experts, and cultural heritage references from Indonesia.

📚 Traditional Indonesian Cookbooks🏛️ Cultural Heritage References👨‍🍳 Regional Culinary Experts
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