| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 85 | 5g | 3g | 8g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 2g | 0.3g |
Why do I love this recipe for Pennywort Sambal (Spicy Indonesian Salad)? Let me count the ways! Growing up with Cuban and Spanish roots in vibrant Miami, my palate has been my passport, traveling through tropical flavors, zesty spices, and refreshing dishes from around the globe. Pennywort Sambal introduces a deliciously spicy Indonesian flair that’s both exciting and comforting. This dish embodies the essence of vibrant, fresh ingredients and the beautiful balance of heat, tang, and crunch.
A Dance of Flavors
In the same way that I choreograph dance routines with diverse movements, Pennywort Sambal brings a symphony of flavors to life. The pennywort leaves provide a crisp, refreshing bite that’s reminiscent of cilantro but with a unique twist. Pair this with the juiciness of tomatoes, the crunch of cucumber, and the richness of grated coconut, and you have a salad that’s truly enchanting.
The sambal oelek adds a fiery kick, balanced beautifully by the zesty lime juice and umami-rich fish sauce. A sprinkle of sugar and salt ties all these flavors together, making each bite a delightful experience on your taste buds. If you’re feeling adventurous, garnish with crispy shallots for an added layer of texture and flavor.
Health Benefits
One of the wonderful aspects of this Pennywort Sambal is its abundance of health benefits. Pennywort leaves are known for their medicinal properties, often used in traditional remedies for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects. Tomatoes and cucumbers are hydrating and packed with vitamins A and C, crucial for skin health and immune function. Coconut provides healthy fats, while the sambal oelek gives a metabolism-boosting spice kick.
This recipe is not just about eating well; it’s about feeling vibrant and energized, much like the dances I teach daily. Fuel your body with this nutrient-rich salad and feel the difference.
Perfect Pairings
While Pennywort Sambal stands out as a star on its own, it pairs beautifully with other dishes. Serve it beside grilled fish or shrimp for a light, balanced meal. It also complements other Southeast Asian dishes such as Gado-Gado (an Indonesian mixed salad) or Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice). The spicy, tangy flavors of the sambal get along famously with the smoky char of grilled meats or the savory richness of seafood.
So next time you’re longing for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish that dances on your palate, remember this recipe for Pennywort Sambal (Spicy Indonesian Salad). It’s more than just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavor, health, and culinary exploration.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups pennywort leaves, thoroughly washed and drained
- 3 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated coconut (unsweetened)
- 3 tablespoons sambal oelek (or other chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup crispy shallots (optional, for garnish)
Method
Step One
Rinse and thoroughly drain the pennywort leaves. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step Two
Add the diced tomatoes and thinly sliced cucumber to the bowl with the pennywort leaves.
Step Three
In a separate small bowl, combine the grated coconut, sambal oelek, fresh lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully integrated.
Step Four
Pour the mixed dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything together until the leaves and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step Five
Transfer the salad to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle crispy shallots over the top for garnish.
Step Six
Serve immediately and enjoy your Pennywort Sambal.
