Sambal oelek

There are a few similarities between sambal oelek and sriracha. Both spicy sauces rely on chiles, salt, and vinegar for their potent tastes. The sambal oelek recipe, other than the addition of water, ends there. It is a straightforward chili paste with Indonesian origins that is typically created using Thai red peppers, which are hotter than the red jalapenos used in sriracha. It is frequently used as the main component in sweet chili sauce or as a flavoring agent in other recipes.

In comparison to rival hot sauces, Sriracha often has a simpler flavor, but the straightforward formula of sambal oelek defies that trend. This substitute's flavor could seem a little underwhelming in contrast because it lacks the sweetness and garlic that fans of sriracha are accustomed to. Sambal oelek will work if the primary objective is to maintain heat in a meal when sriracha is absent. However, because it is a paste, it is often not suitable for dipping or topping. Another Sriracha substitute that ranks higher on this list for its rich flavor is sweet chili sauce, which is frequently made from Thai red peppers and sambal oelek.