Thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce Substitute for Sambal Terasi: Exact Ratio
Looking for a sambal terasi substitute? Thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce works as a direct replacement. Use Same amount (1:1) in any recipe that calls for sambal terasi.
Best Substitute
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.
Tips When Replacing Sambal Terasi in Recipes
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.
What Is Sambal Terasi and Why Substitute It?
Use these 7 sambal terasi substitutes in dressings, glazes, stir-fries, dipping sauces, and marinades. Each option keeps the quantity guidance clear and easy to compare. A good place to start is Sambal Oelek (chili
Thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce is one of 7 alternatives you can use instead of sambal terasi. For a complete list of sambal terasi substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full sambal terasi substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Sambal Terasi?
Sambal Oelek (chili paste) + shrimp paste instead of Sambal Terasi
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Fresh red chili paste + anchovy paste or fish sauce instead of Sambal Terasi
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Sambal Oelek alone instead of Sambal Terasi
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Sambal Terasi Paste (Jarred) instead of Sambal Terasi
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Sambal Terasi Powder/Dry Mix instead of Sambal Terasi
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Sriracha + shrimp paste instead of Sambal Terasi
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce instead of sambal terasi?
Yes, you can use thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce as a substitute for sambal terasi. Use 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.
How much thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce equals sambal terasi?
Use Same amount (1:1) to replace sambal terasi with thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce.
What is the best substitute for sambal terasi?
Thai chili paste (nam pla prik) + fish sauce is a popular substitute for sambal terasi. Use Same amount (1:1) for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 7 alternatives on our sambal terasi substitute page.