Sambal Terong

Sambal Terong Recipe from Brunei with Aubergines and Spices

Region / culture: Brunei | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sambal Terong is a traditional Indonesian dish that features eggplant cooked in a spicy and flavorful sauce. This dish is popular for its bold flavors and unique combination of ingredients.

History

Sambal Terong has been a staple in Indonesian cuisine for many years. It is believed to have originated in Java, Indonesia, where eggplants are commonly grown and used in various dishes. The dish has since spread to other parts of the country and has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Ingredients

2 small eggplants
1 large spanish onion
4 cloves of garlic
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp terasi
1 tsp brown sugar
2 large tomatoes

How to prepare

Slice the eggplant and sprinkle it with salt. Leave it to stand for half an hour, then rinse and dry it.
Cut the tomatoes into pieces and remove the seeds.
Crush the shrimp paste and garlic together.
Thinly slice the onion and fry it until slightly brown.
Add the garlic, shrimp paste, sugar, and chili powder.
Put in the eggplant and mix well.
Add the tomatoes, cover the pan, and continue cooking gently for 5 minutes.
Taste and add salt if necessary.
Then put the mixture into a pudding basin and steam it for 20 minutes.

Variations

Add diced tofu or tempeh for added protein.
Use different types of chili peppers for varying levels of heat.
Add coconut milk for a creamier sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the salt off the eggplant after letting it stand to remove any bitterness.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference.

- Steam the mixture gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Sambal Terong can be served with steamed rice or as a side dish to a main meal. It pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute shrimp paste with fish sauce for a different flavor profile.

- Use red onion instead of Spanish onion for a milder taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the eggplant just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sambal Terong in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh cilantro or basil leaves.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Sambal Terong with a refreshing cucumber salad or pickled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 120

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Fats: 5g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 3g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamins and Minerals: Eggplants are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and K.

Alergens

Allergens: Shrimp paste may contain shellfish allergens.

Summary

Sambal Terong is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of fiber and is relatively low in calories.

Summary

Sambal Terong is a delicious and nutritious Indonesian dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its bold flavors and unique ingredients, this dish is a must-try for any food lover.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a friend's house for a potluck. As soon as I walked into the kitchen, the spicy aroma of sambal terong hit me like a ton of bricks. I was immediately intrigued by the vibrant colors and bold flavors of this Indonesian dish.

My friend's mother, Mrs. Lim, was busy in the kitchen, stirring a bubbling pot of sambal terong. I watched intently as she added a handful of chilies, garlic, and shallots to the pan, along with a generous splash of coconut milk. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

Mrs. Lim noticed my interest and invited me to help her prepare the sambal terong. As we worked together, she shared the story of how she learned to make this traditional Indonesian dish. She explained that sambal terong was a family recipe, passed down from her grandmother to her mother, and now to her.

Mrs. Lim's grandmother had taught her the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients in her cooking. She stressed the importance of sourcing the best chilies, eggplants, and spices to achieve the perfect balance of flavors in sambal terong.

As we cooked together, Mrs. Lim showed me her grandmother's secret ingredient – a pinch of shrimp paste. She explained that this umami-rich ingredient added depth and complexity to the spicy sauce, elevating the dish to a whole new level.

After hours of simmering and stirring, the sambal terong was finally ready. Mrs. Lim served it up alongside a mound of steaming white rice, and we all dug in. The flavors exploded in my mouth – spicy, sweet, savory, and tangy all at once. I savored every bite, savoring the memories of that hot summer day.

From that moment on, I was hooked on sambal terong. I begged Mrs. Lim for her recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. I made it my mission to perfect this dish, experimenting with different chili varieties, spice blends, and cooking techniques until I found the perfect balance of flavors.

Over the years, I have continued to refine my sambal terong recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at the bold flavors and complex layers of this traditional Indonesian dish.

I am proud to say that sambal terong has become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a dish that never fails to impress and delight. Every time I make it, I am transported back to that hot summer day in Mrs. Lim's kitchen, surrounded by friends and family, savoring the taste of tradition and love.

And so, the story of sambal terong continues to evolve, passed down from generation to generation, each cook adding their own unique twist to this beloved recipe. I can only hope that one day, my grandchildren will carry on the tradition, cooking sambal terong with the same passion and love that I have for this dish.