Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Chili Paste?
Spicy Chili Paste is a vibrant and flavorful condiment inspired by traditional Sambal Oelek, featuring fresh red chilies and rice vinegar.
Is this Spicy Chili Paste recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you use vegan sugar or standard granulated sugar.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 4 main ingredients: fresh red chilies, rice wine vinegar, sugar, and salt.
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation involves washing, chopping, and pulsing ingredients in a blender, taking only a few minutes.
How should I store the chili paste?
Store the paste in a clean, sealed container and keep it refrigerated.
How long will the chili paste last?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks.
Can I use this as a dipping sauce?
Yes, it is perfect for use as a dipping sauce, marinade, or stir-fry addition.
What is the calorie count for this recipe?
The recipe contains approximately 160 calories.
Does this chili paste contain any fat?
No, this recipe contains 0 grams of fat.
What type of chilies should I use?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of fresh red chilies.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can adjust the quantity of chilies or balance the heat with sugar and salt to suit your preference.
What is the texture of the paste?
The texture should be finely chopped but still slightly chunky; avoid pureeing it completely.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe contains 16 grams of sugar.
Is there protein in this sauce?
Yes, there are 4 grams of protein in this recipe.
Does the paste contain fiber?
Yes, it contains 4 grams of fiber.
What type of vinegar is recommended?
Rice wine vinegar is recommended for a tangy and authentic flavor.
Can I use this for Asian cooking?
Absolutely, it is specifically tagged for Asian cooking and works well in those flavor profiles.
Is this recipe similar to Sambal Oelek?
Yes, it is a homemade version inspired by traditional Sambal Oelek.
How many carbohydrates are in the paste?
There are 40 grams of carbohydrates in this recipe.
Can I gift this chili paste?
Yes, it makes a great gift when placed in a decorative jar.
Should I wash the chilies first?
Yes, start by washing and then chopping the fresh red chilies.
What equipment do I need?
You will need a blender or food processor to pulse the ingredients.
Is there any sodium in this recipe?
The recipe includes 1 teaspoon of salt, though the exact sodium measurement is not specified.
How do I balance the flavor?
Taste the mixture after pulsing and adjust the sugar and salt to balance the heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients listed (chilies, vinegar, sugar, salt) are naturally gluten-free.
What is the serving size?
The recipe is calculated for 1 serving/batch.
Can I use granulated sugar?
Yes, either granulated sugar or vegan sugar can be used.
Does it contain cholesterol?
No cholesterol is listed for this vegetable-based condiment.
Can I add other ingredients?
While the base recipe uses 4 ingredients, it is customizable to your preferred flavor profile.
What should I do if the paste is too thick?
You can slightly increase the rice wine vinegar to reach your desired consistency.