Main Course · Dinner · Asian ·

Indonesian Pineapple Sambal Curry with Coconut Rice

This Indonesian curry combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the punch of sambal chili paste, served over fragrant coconut rice.

4.8(102 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Indonesian Pineapple Sambal Curry with Coconut Rice — Main Course served and photographed from above
Prep
30 min
Cook
1 h 30 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Preparing the Curry Base

  1. 1

    Heat the Oil

    Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan.

  2. 2

    Sauté Aromatics

    Add garlic, ginger, and onion and sauté until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Set Aside

    Remove from heat and set aside.

Making the Sambal Paste

  1. 1

    Combine Ingredients

    In a blender, combine chilies, shrimp paste, and palm sugar.

  2. 2

    Blend Smooth

    Blend until smooth.

    Tip: Do not over-blend the chilies as it can make the sambal too watery.

  3. 3

    Mix with Curry Base

    Stir the paste into the prepared curry base.

    Tip: Use dry roasted shrimp paste for deeper flavor.

How to Make Indonesian Pineapple Sambal Curry with Coconut Rice

Total time: 2 h · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Add Sauce Ingredients

    Add the coconut milk, tamarind paste, and turmeric powder to the curry pot.

  2. 2

    Simmer Pineapple and Chicken

    Add chopped pineapple and chicken pieces into the curry, seasoning with salt. Simmer until chicken is cooked through and pineapple is tender.

  3. 3

    Cook Coconut Rice

    Combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt in a rice cooker and cook until tender.

Chef's Tips

    Further reading

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

    Can I make this ahead?

    Yes, the curry can be made a day in advance and reheated. Cook the rice fresh for best texture.

    What can I substitute for shrimp paste?

    You can use fish sauce as a substitute, though the flavor profile will slightly differ.

    Is there a vegetarian option?

    Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and omit the shrimp paste for a vegetarian version.

    Can I use a different type of rice?

    Yes, basmati or long-grain rice can be used as an alternative to jasmine rice.

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