Bean Sprouts Sambal: A Spicy and Flavorful Stir-Fry

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish, Bean Sprouts Sambal is the perfect choice. This Southeast Asian-inspired stir-fry combines the crunch of fresh bean sprouts with the bold flavors of sambal, garlic, and aromatic spices. Whether you serve it as a side dish or pair it with rice and protein for a complete meal, this spicy, tangy, and savory dish is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Bean Sprouts Sambal, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh bean sprouts

• 1 small onion, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red chili, sliced (optional for extra heat)

• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame oil)

For the Sambal Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons sambal oelek (or chili paste)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional, for umami flavor)

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon lime juice

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro or scallions, chopped

• A squeeze of lime

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Rinse the bean sprouts in cold water and drain well.

2. Slice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the chili.

3. Mix all the sambal sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent.

3. Add the garlic and chili, stir-frying for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Bean Sprouts

1. Increase the heat to high and add the bean sprouts to the wok.

2. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they are slightly softened but still crunchy.

Step 4: Add the Sambal Sauce

1. Pour in the prepared sambal sauce and toss everything together.

2. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the bean sprouts are well coated in the sauce.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer to a serving plate.

2. Garnish with fresh cilantro or scallions and a squeeze of lime.

3. Serve immediately with steamed rice or as a side dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy days.

• Healthy & Low-Calorie – Bean sprouts are packed with fiber and nutrients.

• Bold & Spicy – The sambal sauce brings an irresistible kick.

• Versatile – Can be enjoyed as a side dish or paired with grilled meats or tofu.

Pro Tips for the Best Bean Sprouts Sambal

• Don’t Overcook the Sprouts – Keep them slightly crunchy for the best texture.

• Adjust Spice Level – Add more chili or reduce sambal based on your preference.

• Use Fresh Bean Sprouts – For maximum crunch and flavor, use fresh sprouts instead of pre-packaged ones.

• Customize Your Dish – Add shrimp, tofu, or mushrooms for a protein boost.

Health Benefits

Bean sprouts are not just tasty but also incredibly nutritious:

• Rich in Fiber – Supports digestion and gut health.

• Low in Calories – Great for weight management.

• Packed with Antioxidants – Helps boost immunity and overall well-being.

Final Thoughts

This Bean Sprouts Sambal is a must-try dish for those who love bold, spicy, and crunchy stir-fries. It’s a quick and flavorful addition to any meal and pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.

Share Your Experience

Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share it with friends and family who love a good spicy dish.