Sambal Sarden: Amazing Sardine Sambal

Welcome to another great sambal recipe! Sambal sarden is a delicious and spicy condiment that uses sardines as its main ingredient. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a flavorful kick to their meals.

To make sambal sarden, simply chop and grind some chillies, garlic and shallot together with spices. Fry the spice paste, add sardines and that’s it!

What is sambal sarden?

Sambal sarden originated in Indonesia, where it is commonly used to enhance the flavors of various dishes. This sambal is made using fresh or canned sardines. The result is a savory and slightly spicy condiment that pairs well with rice, noodles, or grilled meats.

Step 1: Collect the ingredients

Note: The given kcal count is based on an online calculator and might deviate from your caloric content.

What to consider when choosing ingredients

• Sardines: Fresh sardines are ideal, but canned sardines work well too. Ensure they are well-drained before use.
• Chillies: Large red chillies provide a moderate heat level. For a spicier sambal, consider using smaller, hotter chillies.
• Garlic and Shallots: Fresh garlic and shallots contribute to the best flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic as it lacks intensity.
• Kaffir Lime Leaves: These add a distinct aroma. If you can’t find fresh leaves, dried ones can be used as an alternative.
• Sunflower Oil: This oil has a high smoke point, making it suitable for frying the spice paste without burning.

Step 2: Chop and grind the ingredients

Chop the washed red chillies, shallot, and garlic finely. Using a mortar and pestle, grind these chopped ingredients and the salt and pepper into a smooth paste. The dried spices help with grinding the other ingredients. You can also use a food processor instead if you wish, this will speed up the process a bit but is less authentic.

Step 3: Fry sambal sarden

Heat some sunflower oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste, kaffir lime leaves and fry for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the sardines and continue frying for another 5 minutes.

That’s it! This sambal is very easy to make and not very spicy so enjoy!

Step 4: Serve and conserve sambal sarden

Serve the sambal warm as a side dish or dipping paste. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. Always check your sambal for spoilage before eating! I recommend serving this sambal with the following dishes:

• Terong balado
• Tahu gejrot
• Ayam kecap
• Ayam paniki
• Nasi uduk
• Telur balado

I hope you’ve enjoyed this wonderful sambal as much as I do! Let me know what you think in the comments below and please leave a rating!

Consider trying out some of my other sambals:

• Sambal pare
• Sambal toge
• Sambal sayur
• Sambal tempe
• Sambal terong
• Sambal tauco