Sambal Cili Kering with Tofu
Makan Tengah Hari • Malaysia
How to Make Sambal Cili Kering with Tofu (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sambal Cili Kering with Tofu is a vibrant vegetarian dish that celebrates the bold and spicy flavors of Malaysian cuisine. Originating from the multicultural tapestry of Malaysia, sambal cili kering is a staple condiment made from dried chillies (cili kering), commonly enjoyed across Malay, Chinese, and Indian households. This recipe pairs the fiery sambal with protein-rich tofu, creating a balanced and satisfying meal suitable for lunch. The sambal is crafted using local ingredients such as lemongrass (serai), shallots, and garlic, which lend depth and aroma, while tofu absorbs the spicy, umami-rich sauce beautifully. Malaysians love sambal for its versatility—it's served with nasi lemak, stir-fries, or even as a dipping sauce. By combining sambal with tofu, this dish offers a vegetarian twist that remains true to its roots. The interplay of spicy, savory, and lightly sweet notes makes it a crowd-pleaser, reflecting Malaysia's rich culinary heritage. It's a great choice for those seeking a meat-free lunch that's both flavorful and nutritious, using indigenous ingredients like pandan leaves for fragrance and santan (optional) for creaminess.
Bahan-bahan(untuk 1 plate with 120g tofu and sambal sauce)
- 250g Firm tofu (Tauhu)
- 20 pieces Dried chillies (Cili kering)
- 4 Shallots (Bawang merah kecil)
- 3 Garlic cloves (Bawang putih)
- 1 stalk Serai (lemongrass) (Finely sliced)
- 1 Pandan leaf (Daun pandan, tied into a knot)
- 2 tablespoons Cooking oil (Minyak masak)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Garam)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (Gula) - pilihan
- 1 tablespoon Light soy sauce (Kicap cair)
- 1 tablespoon Lime juice (Perahan limau nipis)
Arahan
- 1
Soak dried chillies in hot water for 10 minutes to soften. Remove seeds for milder heat.
10 minutes
Wear gloves to avoid chili burns.
- 2
Blend soaked chillies, shallots, garlic, and serai with a splash of water until smooth.
5 minutes
Add water gradually for the perfect paste consistency.
- 3
Heat oil in a pan. Sauté the blended sambal paste and pandan leaf until fragrant and oil separates.
5 minutes
Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- 4
Add salt, sugar (if using), and soy sauce. Stir well and simmer for 3 minutes.
3 minutes
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Kenapa hidangan ini sihat
This Malaysian tofu sambal is a healthy choice because it uses lean plant protein, minimal oil, and fresh, antioxidant-rich ingredients. The absence of animal products makes it heart-friendly and low in saturated fat. By pan-frying tofu instead of deep-frying, calories are reduced. Local spices and herbs boost flavor without relying on excess salt or sugar, making it suitable for calorie tracking and clean eating.
Sambal Cili Kering with Tofu is rich in plant-based protein from tauhu, making it a great meat-free option. Tofu provides essential amino acids, calcium, and iron, while the sambal ingredients—chillies, garlic, shallots, and lemongrass—are high in antioxidants and vitamins (A, C, E). Using minimal oil keeps the fat content moderate. Pandan and lime juice add micronutrients and natural flavor. This dish is cholesterol-free, suitable for vegetarians, and can be adapted for vegans.
Petua
- 💡Tip 1: Remove chili seeds for a milder sambal suitable for all ages.
- 💡Tip 2: Use fresh pandan and lemongrass for authentic aroma.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra nutrition, add steamed vegetables like okra or long beans.
Penyimpanan & hidangan
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave. Sambal can be made ahead and kept for up to 1 week.
Paling sesuai dihidang: Lunch
Fakta Nutrisi
| Nutrien | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Tenaga | 170.0 kcal |
