Sambal Oelek
Sambal Oelek is a vibrant, fiery Indonesian chili paste that serves as a cornerstone of the archipelago's cuisine. Its core ingredients are simply fresh red chilies, salt, and often a touch of vinegar or lime juice, pounded into a coarse, rustic texture. It originates from Indonesia, specifically Java, and is a fundamental condiment found on dining tables across the country and throughout Southeast Asia.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Sambal Oelek is very low in carbohydrates, fat, and protein, making it a negligible source of calories—typically around 5-10 calories per tablespoon. Its primary nutritional contribution comes from capsaicin, the compound responsible for its heat, which has antioxidant properties, and from vitamins A and C found in the fresh chilies.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 10 kcal |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Carbs | 1.5 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 0.8 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Vitamin A | 800 IU |
| Potassium | 100 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
| Calcium | 10 mg |
| Capsaicin | variable |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
Per 1 tablespoon (18 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Sambal Oelek is not just a condiment but a foundational flavor base for countless Indonesian dishes, often cooked into curries, stews, and stir-fries. Its name, 'oelek,' is an old Dutch-influenced spelling of the Javanese word for 'chili,' reflecting Indonesia's colonial history and the paste's enduring legacy as a symbol of authentic, unadulterated heat.
