
Sambal Kering Udang
Makan Tengah Hari • Malaysia
How to Make Sambal Kering Udang (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sambal Kering Udang is a beloved Malaysian dish, best known for its bold, spicy flavors and satisfying crunch. Rooted in the multicultural tapestry of Malaysia, this dish is commonly found in both Malay and Nyonya households, making it a staple at family gatherings and festive occasions. Traditionally, 'sambal' refers to a spicy chili paste, while 'kering' means dry, and 'udang' is prawn. In this health-conscious version, we retain the authentic taste using fresh, local ingredients like cili kering (dried chilies), bawang merah (shallots), and daun limau purut (kaffir lime leaves) for a fragrant, umami-packed result. What makes Sambal Kering Udang truly special is its versatility—served as a side with nasi lemak, or as a highlight during lunch, it embodies the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia. This dish combines the spicy heat of sambal with the natural sweetness of prawns, balanced by aromatic herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. With a lighter oil touch and careful use of sugar, this recipe fits a modern, health-oriented lifestyle without sacrificing the flavors Malaysians love. Perfect for lunch, it offers a taste of home and tradition in every bite.
Bahan-bahan(untuk 1 medium plate with rice and vegetables)
- 1/2 cup Udang kering (dried shrimp, soaked and drained) (Choose medium-sized, local dried shrimp)
- 8 pieces Cili kering (dried red chilies) (Soaked, seeds removed)
- 4 cloves Bawang merah (shallots) (Peeled)
- 2 cloves Bawang putih (garlic) (Peeled)
- 1 stalk Serai (lemongrass) (White part only, sliced)
- 3 leaves Daun limau purut (kaffir lime leaves) (Thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Minyak masak (cooking oil) (Use canola or sunflower oil)
- 1 teaspoon Gula Melaka (palm sugar) (Grated, or substitute brown sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garam (salt)
- 2 tablespoons Air asam jawa (tamarind juice) (Mix 1 tsp tamarind paste with 2 tbsp water)
Arahan
- 1
Soak udang kering (dried shrimp) in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
10 minutes
Use fresh, good-quality dried shrimp for best flavor.
- 2
Blend cili kering, bawang merah, bawang putih, and serai into a smooth paste using a food processor or mortar and pestle.
5 minutes
Add a little water if needed to help blending.
- 3
Heat minyak masak (cooking oil) in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the blended paste and sauté until fragrant and oil separates, about 5–6 minutes.
6 minutes
Stir constantly to prevent burning and bring out the aroma.
- 4
Add the soaked udang kering and continue to stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly crispy.
4 minutes
Do not overcook to keep shrimp tender.
Kenapa hidangan ini sihat
This healthy Malaysian recipe is prepared with minimal oil and sugar, using nutrient-dense ingredients like dried shrimp and natural aromatics. By avoiding deep frying and using just enough oil to sauté the sambal, it keeps calories in check. The inclusion of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves adds flavor without extra calories, making it suitable for weight management and balanced meals.
Sambal Kering Udang is a protein-rich dish, thanks to the dried shrimp, which are low in fat and high in essential minerals like calcium and iron. The use of fresh herbs such as lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Minimal oil and a modest amount of palm sugar make this a lower-calorie choice, ideal for those monitoring their macronutrient intake. The dish is also naturally gluten-free and can be adjusted to suit different dietary needs.
Petua
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly soaked dried shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Blend the sambal paste until very smooth for a refined texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Allow sambal to dry thoroughly in the pan for longer shelf life.
Penyimpanan & hidangan
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Sambal can be reheated in a pan or enjoyed cold as a condiment.
Paling sesuai dihidang: Breakfast or Lunch
Fakta Nutrisi
| Nutrien | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Tenaga | 210.0 kcal |





