Step 1 of 4
Pol sambol
Pound the chilli flakes, shallot, Maldive fish, salt and pepper in a mortar to a coarse red paste, 2 to 3 minutes.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Pol sambol take?
10 min all in — 10 min prep. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 6 people. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Very easy.
How spicy is it?
Hot.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Fish. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Pescatarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free.
6 more questionsFewer questions
What does it cost to cook?
Cheap night — about Under $8 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Mortar and pestle, Mixing bowl.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at ¾ tsp.
What can I use instead?
Maldive fish → A teaspoon of dried shrimp pounded fine, or leave it out. Dried shrimp gives a similar savoury depth. Without either it is still a good sambol.
Any tips from this recipe?
Grating your own coconut is worth it if you have the time; the sambol is juicier and sweeter. If using desiccated coconut, soak 150 g in 100 ml warm water for 15 minutes and squeeze lightly first.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.