Indonesian Sambal BBQ Marinade
A game-changing marinade that combines the complex heat of authentic sambal with traditional BBQ flavors. Perfect for grilling chicken, beef, pork, or seafood.
- Prep time
- 15 min
- Cook time
- 11 min
- Yield
- 6 servings
- Difficulty
- HARD
Ingredients
Quantities are shown as originally provided.
- 3 tablespoons Spice Island Sambal Bali
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or lime juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, for umami depth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sambal bali, honey (or brown sugar), and soy sauce until well combined.
- 2
Add the rice vinegar, vegetable oil, and sesame oil. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, ground coriander, and cumin until evenly distributed.
- 4
Add the tomato paste and fish sauce (if using). Mix thoroughly until no lumps remain.
- 5
Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning. Add salt and pepper as needed, or more honey for sweetness.
- 6
Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors will develop and improve over time.
- 7
To use: Marinate chicken for 2-4 hours, beef or pork for 4-8 hours, and seafood for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- 8
Grill over medium-high heat, basting with reserved marinade during cooking for extra flavor and glaze.