Sambal is a fresh pepper or chilli paste from Southeast Asia, most commonly made with ground chilli, salt and vinegar. A more elaborate sambal can be spiced with fruit or onion, lime juice, lemon grass, sugar, garlic and oil. Sambal oelek is the Indonesian version of this condiment – a crimson chilli paste, kept in its simplest form to preserve the chilli’s character by only adding brown sugar and salt. “Oelek” is the Dutch spelling of the Indonesian word “ulek”, referring to a prehistoric Indonesian stoneware pestle and mortar which is still used to grind spices. Sambal oelek is a…
Beef kare became a staple of Japanese food since spices were imported into the country. Togarashi is a blend of whole and coarsely ground spices, and is also…
Melba toast can become quite boring, and this is a delicious alternative to have with dips or salsa and cheese at lunch.
TO DRINK: A complex, lighter style of wine such as a pinot noir will not overpower the dish’s delicate flavours. Go for the Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir or…
This smoky vegetable bruschetta with chilli dish is an absolutely brilliant way to kick off a barbecue. Just make sure you arrange your coals so that there’s a high,…
To drink: A white wine with loads of ripeness, such as Cederberg Bukettraube, will be perfect with these particular spices.