Best Sambal Terasi Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Sambal Terasi in a Recipe?
Use the same amount as the original. Mix 2 tsp sambal oelek with 1/4 tsp shrimp paste to approximate sambal terasi. Adjust shrimp paste to taste for umami depth.
Looking for the best Sambal Terasi substitute? You're in the right place. We've rounded up 7 reliable Sambal Terasi replacements that work in cooking and baking — ranked and explained so you can pick the right one for your recipe. Great for when you want to save money at the store. The top pick is Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste — it's the closest match for most recipes. Mix 2 tsp sambal oelek with 1/4 tsp shrimp paste to approximate sambal terasi. Adjust shrimp paste to taste for umami depth.
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Get ratios for Sambal Terasi →All Sambal Terasi Substitutes (7 options)
Mix 2 tsp sambal oelek with 1/4 tsp shrimp paste to approximate sambal terasi. Adjust shrimp paste to taste for umami depth.
Mix fresh red chili paste with 1/4 tsp anchovy paste or fish sauce per 1 tbsp. Most authentic flavor when made fresh.
Loses fermented umami but retains heat and chili flavor. Best when other savory elements (soy sauce, fish sauce) are in the dish.
Commercial versions are identical to homemade in flavor profile and intensity; no conversion needed.
Concentrated dried form; use half the amount and reconstitute with a little water. Slightly less complex flavor than fresh.
Mix 1 tbsp sriracha with 1/8 tsp shrimp paste. Less authentic but accessible; sriracha is sweeter than traditional sambal terasi.
Mix 1 tbsp Thai chili paste with 1/4 tsp fish sauce for umami. Slightly different flavor profile but similar heat and funk level.
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Tips for Substituting Sambal Terasi
For most recipes, Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste is the best starting point. Mix 2 tsp sambal oelek with 1/4 tsp shrimp paste to approximate sambal terasi. Adjust shrimp paste to taste for umami depth. Watching your grocery budget? Sriracha + shrimp paste is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you're unsure which Sambal Terasi substitute to use, think about why the original is in the recipe: flavor, texture, moisture, or binding? Choose the substitute that best matches that function.
Common Questions About Sambal Terasi Substitutes
The best substitute for Sambal Terasi is Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste. Use the same amount. Mix 2 tsp sambal oelek with 1/4 tsp shrimp paste to approximate sambal terasi. Adjust shrimp paste to taste for umami depth.
This guide lists 7 Sambal Terasi alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
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