Sambol Goreng

Sambol Goreng Recipe - A Spicy Indonesian Chicken Dish

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sambol Goreng is a traditional Indonesian dish that is packed with bold flavors and aromatic spices. This dish features tender chicken livers, crisp green beans, and a savory sauce that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

History

Sambol Goreng has its roots in Indonesian cuisine, where it is a popular dish enjoyed by many. The combination of chicken livers and green beans cooked in a flavorful sauce has been a staple in Indonesian households for generations.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) chicken livers, cut in half
3 tbsp peanut oil
10 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
3 shallots, minced
1 lb (454 g) green beans, cut in 1 inch pieces
1 cup chicken broth
0.25 cup lemon juice
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp salt
2 tsp molasses
2 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cayenne

How to prepare

In a large skillet, sauté chicken livers in peanut oil over high heat until they turn light brown, stirring constantly.
Remove the livers from the skillet.
Reduce the heat and add garlic, ginger, and shallots to the skillet.
Add beans and cook for 3 minutes.
Add the remaining ingredients, cover the skillet, and cook on low heat for 10 minutes.
Return the livers to the skillet and cook for an additional 4 minutes.

Variations

Substitute chicken livers with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the chicken livers until they are just cooked through to avoid them becoming tough.

- Adjust the level of cayenne to suit your spice preference.

- Be sure to stir the ingredients constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Sambol Goreng is traditionally served over steamed rice, but it can also be enjoyed on its own or with a side of crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the chicken livers over high heat to achieve a nice sear.

- Cover the skillet to allow the flavors to meld together while cooking on low heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable oil instead of peanut oil.

- Substitute green beans with snap peas or asparagus.

Make Ahead Tips

Sambol Goreng can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced red chilies for a pop of color and added freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Sambol Goreng with a side of cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 320

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g

Fats

Total Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 4g

Proteins

Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 6mg

Vitamin C: 20mg

Alergens

Contains: Peanuts, Soy

Summary

Sambol Goreng is a nutrient-dense dish that is rich in protein, iron, and vitamin C. It is a satisfying meal that will keep you feeling full and energized.

Summary

Sambol Goreng is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its bold flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients, it is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting my friend Fatima's house for dinner. As soon as I walked in, I was hit by the most incredible aroma. Fatima was in the kitchen, stirring a pot of bubbling sauce that looked and smelled absolutely divine.

"What are you making?" I asked, unable to resist the temptation.

Fatima smiled and beckoned me over to the stove. "It's called Sambol Goreng," she said. "It's a traditional Indonesian dish that my grandmother used to make. Would you like to try some?"

I eagerly accepted her offer and took a bite of the dish. The flavors exploded in my mouth - spicy, sweet, tangy, and savory all at once. I was immediately hooked and knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the years, I have collected recipes from various places and people, but this one was truly special. It had a unique blend of flavors and a complexity that I had never experienced before. I begged Fatima for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to teach me how to make it.

We spent the evening cooking together, chopping vegetables, grinding spices, and simmering the sauce until it reached the perfect consistency. Fatima shared stories of her grandmother and the history of the dish, passing down the tradition to me with each stir of the spoon.

As we sat down to eat, I savored every bite of the Sambol Goreng. It was a dish that spoke to my soul, reminding me of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

From that day on, Sambol Goreng became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I experimented with different variations, adding my own twist to the traditional recipe. I shared it with friends and family, who always raved about its deliciousness.

As the years passed, I continued to refine my Sambol Goreng recipe, making it my own. I added a touch of coconut milk for creaminess, a squeeze of lime for brightness, and a dash of chili for heat. Each time I made it, I felt a connection to Fatima and her grandmother, grateful for the gift of this incredible dish.

I have since passed down the recipe to my own grandchildren, sharing the story of how I learned to make Sambol Goreng and the joy it brings me to cook for those I love. It has become a family tradition, a dish that we make together on special occasions and holidays, honoring the memories of those who came before us.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of bubbling Sambol Goreng on a warm summer evening, I am filled with gratitude for the journey that brought me to this moment. I am thankful for the friends who have taught me their recipes, the memories we have created together, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones we hold dear.

And as I take a bite of the Sambol Goreng, the flavors exploding in my mouth once again, I am reminded of the power of food to nourish not only our bodies but also our souls. It is a gift that we can pass down through generations, a reminder of the love and connection that binds us together.