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Sri Lankan anchovies sambal served in a bowl with crispy fried anchovies and chili flakes.

Anchovies Sambal Recipe

Crispy, spicy Sri Lankan anchovies sambal made in under 30 minutes. A bold, addictive side dish with fried dried anchovies, onions, garlic, chili flakes, and aromatic spices. Perfect with rice, roti, or meal‑prep bowls.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Deep Fry Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 150g Sundried anchovies head removed
  • 2 tbsp Cooking oil of your choice
  • Curry leaves
  • ½ tsp Mustard seeds
  • 1 Sundried red chili pepper sliced
  • ½ tsp Ginger minced
  • 1 tsp Garlic minced
  • 1 small Onion sliced
  • ½ tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp Chili flakes
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • 1 Green chilies sliced

Method
 

  1. Deep-fry anchovies until golden brown. Set aside.
  2. In a pan, heat oil and add curry leaves, mustard seeds, and sundried red chili pepper.
  3. Add garlic, ginger, onions, turmeric, chili flakes, and salt. Cook until onions are soft.
  4. Toss in green chilies and fried anchovies. Stir and cook for 3–5 minutes.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy!