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–+ servings

Lunu Miris - Chili and Onion Sambal

spicy chili and onion sambal on a plate with a spoon.
A fiery, tangy Sri Lankan chili and onion sambal made with just 4 ingredients and ready in 10 minutes. The perfect partner for kiribath, coconut roti, hoppers and rice.
4 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4

Equipment

  • mortar and pestle

Ingredients
 

  • 1 cup shallots
  • 1 tbsp chili flakes
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp lime juice
  • ½ tsp chili powder

Instructions
 

  • Peel and slice the shallots. It's easier to pound if sliced.
  • Add the sliced shallots to a mortar and pound them until they start to break down. Mix in the chili flakes and continue pounding until the mixture turns into a rough, mushy paste. If you’re using chili powder, add it at this stage and mix well.
  • Finally, add the salt and lime juice, then pound everything together until it’s well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, and your sambal is ready to serve!

Notes

  • No shallots? White onions work as a substitute, but the flavour will be sharper.
  • Food processor method: Pulse the shallots and chili in short bursts until coarse, then stir in the salt and lime. Don't over blend.
  • Heat level: Adjust the chili flakes to taste and skip the chili powder for a milder version.
  • Best eaten fresh, on the day it's made.
  • Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. 

Nutrition

Calories: 50 kcal | Total Carbs: 11 g | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 0.4 g | Saturated Fat: 0.1 g | Sodium: 480 mg | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 5 g | Vitamin A: 671 IU | Vitamin C: 6 mg | Calcium: 30 mg | Iron: 1 mg | Net Carbs: 9 g
DID YOU MAKE THIS?I want to know! Leave a comment & recipe rating below or tag @loveandotherspices on social media!
Course Condiments
Cuisine Sri Lankan