Sambal oelek is a popular Indonesian chili paste known for its bold, fiery flavor and simple ingredients—mainly ground red chilies, salt, and vinegar. It’s a versatile condiment used to add heat to a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to sauces and marinades.
If you find yourself out of sambal oelek, there are several substitutes that can replicate its heat and flavor.
What is Sambal Oelek?
Sambal oelek is a traditional Indonesian chili paste made primarily from ground red chilies, with salt and vinegar added for preservation and flavor. It has a raw, fresh heat that’s less complex than other chili sauces, making it a favorite for those who want to add a straightforward, spicy kick to their dishes.
It’s commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking but has gained popularity worldwide for its versatility uses.
5 Sambal Oelek Substitutes
1. Sriracha Sauce
Sriracha sauce is a widely available substitute for sambal oelek. While it has a slightly different flavor profile—being sweeter and garlickier—Sriracha still brings the heat and can be used in a similar way. Its smooth, thick consistency makes it easy to incorporate into sauces, marinades, and dressings.
If you want to reduce the sweetness and garlic flavor, you can mix Sriracha with a bit of crushed red pepper flakes or minced fresh chilies to bring it closer to the original taste and texture of sambal oelek.
2. Harissa Paste
Harissa paste is a North African chili paste and another good substitute for sambal oelek. It’s made from roasted red peppers, chilies, garlic, and a blend of spices, giving it a deeper, more complex flavor. While it’s spicier and more aromatic than sambal oelek, harissa can add a rich, smoky heat to your dishes.
Use harissa in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for sambal oelek, but be aware that its flavor may alter the dish slightly. It works particularly well in stews, marinades, and as a condiment for grilled meats.
3. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
Crushed red pepper flakes can be a quick and easy substitute for sambal oelek, especially in recipes where texture isn’t as important. They can provide a similar level of heat and are a common pantry staple, making them a convenient option.
To substitute, start with a smaller amount of crushed red pepper flakes, about half the amount of sambal oelek called for, and adjust to taste. This alternative works well in stir-fries, sauces, and as a topping for pizzas and pasta.
4. Chili Garlic Sauce
Chili garlic sauce is another suitable substitute for sambal oelek. It’s thicker and has a more pronounced garlic flavor, but it provides a similar level of heat and can be used in a variety of dishes. Chili garlic sauce is readily available in most grocery stores, often found in the Asian foods section.
You can use chili garlic sauce in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for sambal oelek. Keep in mind that the added garlic will influence the flavor of your dish, so it’s best used in recipes where garlic would complement the other ingredients. It works well in stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces.
5. Fresh Red Chilies with Vinegar
If you have fresh red chilies on hand, you can create a quick homemade substitute for sambal oelek. Simply blend the chilies with a little vinegar and salt to mimic the basic components of sambal oelek.
To make this substitute, use approximately 1 tablespoon of vinegar for every 4-5 chilies, adjusting the salt to taste. This fresh chili paste can be used in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for sambal oelek and works particularly well in recipes that benefit from a fresh, vibrant chili flavor, such as soups, stir-fries, and sauces.
How to Incorporate These Substitutes
When using substitutes for sambal oelek, consider the specific flavors and textures in your dish. Sriracha and chili garlic sauce are versatile and easy to use but bring additional flavors like sweetness and garlic.
Harissa paste adds complexity and depth, making it great for heartier dishes.
Crushed red pepper flakes are a simple option for adding heat, especially in recipes where texture is less important.
Fresh red chilies with vinegar provide a fresh and customizable alternative that closely resembles the original chili paste.
Conclusion
Sambal oelek adds a straightforward, spicy kick to many dishes, but when it’s not available, these substitutes can help you achieve similar results.
Whether you choose the familiar heat of Sriracha, the complex flavors of harissa, or a fresh homemade chili paste, each alternative offers a way to keep your recipes flavorful and spicy.