Substitute for Sambal Terasi: 7 Smart Options
The best substitute for sambal terasi is Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 6 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste in place of sambal terasi when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for sambal terasi?
Fresh red chili paste + anchovy paste or fish sauce
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Fresh red chili paste + anchovy paste or fish sauce in place of sambal terasi when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
Sambal Oelek alone
Same amount (1:1)
Sambal Oelek alone is a workable stand-in for sambal terasi. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in sauces.
Sambal Terasi Paste (Jarred)
Same amount (1:1)
Sambal Terasi Paste (Jarred) works as a substitute for sambal terasi in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Sambal Terasi Powder/Dry Mix
Use 50%
Sambal Terasi Powder/Dry Mix works as a substitute for sambal terasi in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than sambal terasi, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
Sriracha + shrimp paste
Same amount (1:1)
Sriracha + shrimp paste is a workable stand-in for sambal terasi. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking and sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
Thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce
Same amount (1:1)
Thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce works as a substitute for sambal terasi in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What should you know before substituting sambal terasi?
Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to sambal terasi in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Salt, sweetness, and acidity can swing quickly here, so make the swap and then fine-tune to taste. If you need a plant-based option, Sambal Oelek alone is a solid alternative.
How do you substitute sambal terasi in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for sambal terasi and you need an alternative, there are 7 tested substitutes available. Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role sambal terasi plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for sambal terasi depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Fresh red chili paste + anchovy paste or fish sauce (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. You can use Fresh red chili paste + anchovy paste or fish sauce in place of sambal terasi when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
When substituting sambal terasi, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Sambal Terasi?
Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste is the best place to start for sambal terasi. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Sambal Terasi?
This page lists 7 substitutes for sambal terasi. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.