Shrimp in Spicy Sambal Sauce

A dish brings together tender shrimp and a bold, spicy sambal sauce that’s perfect for adding a kick to your meal. It’s quick to make and sure to impress anyone who loves a little heat in their dinner.

Chef's Cooking Tips

Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
Adjust the amount of sambal chili paste to control the spice level.
Cook the shrimp just until pink to avoid a rubbery texture.

Ingredients 0/9

1 pound large frozen shrimp, tails removed ½ cup butter 3 cloves garlic, minced, or more to taste ½ lemon, juiced, divided ¾ cup chopped onion ½ cup sambal oelek (Indonesian red chile paste) 3 cups water 3 cups sushi rice ½ bunch green onions, chopped

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

This dish offers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that brings out the natural flavor of shrimp. It’s quick to prepare and makes for a vibrant, satisfying meal. The spicy sambal sauce adds a bold kick that’s sure to please anyone who enjoys a bit of heat.

Step 1

Thaw the shrimp in a big bowl of cold water for about 10 to 15 minutes. While that’s happening, melt half a cup of butter in a microwave-safe bowl—heat it in short 15-second bursts until it’s fully melted. Stir in the garlic and half of the lemon juice.

Step 2

Melt a teaspoon and a half of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the shrimp to the skillet along with the garlic butter mixture and sambal oelek. Cook everything together, stirring gently, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes.

Step 4

Meanwhile, bring water and sushi rice to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the rice is tender, roughly 15 minutes. Take it off the heat and leave it covered for another 10 minutes so the rice can absorb any remaining liquid.

Step 5

To serve, spoon the shrimp and sauce over the rice, then drizzle with the rest of the lemon juice and sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh finish.

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people cooked this recipe

By Daniel Wilson

Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.

Creative Serving Ideas

Serve with steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of sautéed greens or a fresh cucumber salad can help balance the spiciness and add a refreshing crunch.

Leftover Care Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp. For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately and add freshly cooked shrimp when ready to serve.