Sambal Oelek (Indonesian Spice)

Jars of sambal can be bought in many Oriental shops and in some delicatessens, but it is quite easy to make your own, especially with a food processor. This is the most basic sambal. To make other sambals, ingredients such as trassi or blachan, a firm paste made of rotted shrimp, and candlenuts are added to the mix.

Heat a heavy frying pan and put in the chilies after 2-3 minutes. Dry roast over a medium heat for a few minutes. Cool, then chop finely and pound to a paste with the salt and sugar. The chili seeds may be taken out, or left in if you want a really fiery relish. The sambal will keep for a week or so in a jar in the refrigerator.