How to Make Sambal Squid Slices (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sambal Squid Slices, known locally as 'Sambal Sotong Hiris', is a beloved dish in Malaysian cuisine, celebrated for its bold flavors and vibrant colors. This iconic seafood dish brings together the aromatic heat of sambal—an essential chili paste in Malaysian kitchens—with tender slices of squid, making it a staple in both Malay and Nyonya households. The sambal is enriched with local ingredients like serai (lemongrass), daun limau purut (kaffir lime leaves), and a touch of asam jawa (tamarind), delivering a balance of spicy, tangy, and umami notes. Malaysian multiculturalism shines in this dish, as sambal is a shared culinary heritage among the Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities. Sambal Squid Slices are often enjoyed as part of a family lunch, served alongside steaming white rice or nasi lemak. Thanks to its moderate use of oil and reliance on fresh, whole ingredients, this healthy adaptation makes it an ideal choice for calorie-conscious eaters who want to savor authentic Malaysian flavors without excess fat or sodium. The dish is easy to prepare, requiring minimal prep time and readily available ingredients from your local pasar (market).
Ingredients
- 200g Fresh squid (sotong), cleaned and sliced
- 4 Red chilies (cili merah, seeds removed for less heat)
- 5 Shallots (bawang merah)
- 2 Garlic cloves (bawang putih)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (serai, white part only, sliced)
- 1 tbsp Tamarind pulp (asam jawa, mixed with 3 tbsp water)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (preferably canola or sunflower oil)
- 2 Kaffir lime leaves (daun limau purut, torn)
- 1 tsp Sugar (or gula Melaka for local flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Clean and slice the squid into thin rings
Clean and slice the squid into thin rings. Rinse well to remove any residue and drain completely.
Step 2 · Blend red chilies
Blend red chilies, shallots, garlic, and lemongrass with a little water to form a smooth paste.
Step 3 · Heat oil in a non-stick wok over medium flame
Heat oil in a non-stick wok over medium flame. Sauté the blended paste until fragrant and oil separates, about 5–6 minutes.
Step 4 · Add tamarind juice
Add tamarind juice, sugar, and salt. Stir well and allow the sambal to simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 5 · Add the squid slices and kaffir lime leaves
Add the squid slices and kaffir lime leaves. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes or until squid is just cooked and tender.
Step 6 · Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Sambal Squid Slices recipe uses minimal oil and omits processed ingredients. By focusing on fresh seafood and vegetables, it is lower in calories, saturated fat, and sodium compared to restaurant versions. The use of natural aromatics and spices enhances flavor without the need for excess sugar or salt, making it perfect for those watching their waistline or cholesterol.
A note on tradition
Sambal Squid Slices is a popular dish throughout Malaysia, especially in coastal states like Selangor and Penang, where fresh seafood is abundant. It’s commonly served during family gatherings, festive open houses, or as a special addition to daily meals. The use of sambal highlights the Malaysian penchant for spicy, aromatic cuisine rooted in both Malay and Nyonya traditions.