Sundanese-inspired Fresh Tomato Sambal

Ingredients

While the original Mexican salsa typically includes ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, and jalapenos, this Sundanese adaptation incorporates Sundanese spices such as turmeric, galangal, and candlenuts. The flavors are more complex, with a balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy notes, reflecting the unique taste profile of Sundanese cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Salsa, so you can check it out.

• 4 large tomatoes, diced (900g) 4 large tomatoes, diced (900g)
• 2 shallots, finely chopped 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 red chilies, finely chopped 2 red chilies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon galangal powder 1 teaspoon galangal powder
• 2 candlenuts, crushed 2 candlenuts, crushed
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar, grated 1 tablespoon palm sugar, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the shallots, garlic, and red chilies to the pan. Sauté until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, galangal powder, and crushed candlenuts. Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften and release their juices.
5. 5.
   Stir in the tamarind paste, grated palm sugar, and salt. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove from heat and let the sambal cool to room temperature.
7. 7.
   Transfer the sambal to a blender or food processor and pulse a few times for a chunky texture.
8. 8.
   Serve the Fresh Tomato Sambal as a condiment or accompaniment to your favorite Sundanese dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Turmeric powder — Be cautious as turmeric can stain surfaces and clothing easily.
• Tamarind paste — Soak tamarind pulp in warm water and strain to obtain the paste.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the amount of red chilies according to your preferred level of spiciness.
• For a smoother texture, blend the sambal for a longer duration.
• Store the sambal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving advice

Serve the Fresh Tomato Sambal alongside Sundanese dishes such as Nasi Timbel (steamed rice wrapped in banana leaves) or Sate Maranggi (grilled beef skewers). It also pairs well with grilled fish or chicken.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Fresh Tomato Sambal with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro, to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.