How long can I store leftovers?

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the fruits and keep the dressing separate. Combine just before serving.

Can the dressing be made less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce or omit the chilies according to your spice tolerance.

What can I substitute for shrimp paste?

Try using miso paste or soy sauce for a different yet umami-packed flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

Yes, simply omit the fish sauce and shrimp paste; substitute with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.

Indonesian Rujak Salad with Spicy Tamarind Dressing

Name: Indonesian Rujak Salad with Spicy Tamarind Dressing
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 1 medium mango; 1 cucumber; 1 small pineapple; 1 jicama; 1 small apple; 2 firm bananas; 3 tablespoons tamarind paste; 2 tablespoons palm sugar; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 2 bird’s eye chilies; 1 teaspoon shrimp paste; Salt

A Zesty, Sweet & Spicy Tropical Fruit Salad

Rujak is a popular Indonesian snack made with fresh fruits and vegetables, draped in a bold tamarind dressing. This vibrant salad is perfect for a hot day and offers a unique balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.

30 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Fruit and Vegetable Base

1 medium mango

peeled and sliced

1 cucumber

sliced thin

1 small pineapple

peeled, cored, and cubed

1 jicama

peeled and sliced

1 small apple

sliced thin

2 firm bananas

sliced

For the Spicy Tamarind Dressing

3 tablespoons tamarind paste

soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water

2 tablespoons palm sugar

grated

1 tablespoon fish sauce

2 bird’s eye chilies

finely chopped (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon shrimp paste

toasted (optional)

Salt

to taste

Preparation

Prepping the Fruit and Vegetables

Rinse and prepare produce

Rinse and prepare all fruits and vegetables as instructed.

Arrange on platter

Arrange sliced fruits and vegetables on a large serving platter.

Making the Spicy Tamarind Dressing

Dissolve sugar

In a small bowl, dissolve the palm sugar in the warm tamarind water.

Combine ingredients

Add the fish sauce, chopped chilies, shrimp paste, and salt; mix well.

Ensure the shrimp paste is thoroughly mixed to avoid uneven taste distribution.

Adjust seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more sugar or fish sauce as desired.

Use a food processor for a smoother dressing texture.

Cooking Process

Combine flavors

Drizzle the spicy tamarind dressing over the arranged fruits and vegetables.

Rest salad

Allow the salad to sit for approximately 10 minutes for flavors to meld.

Final toss

Toss briefly before serving to ensure even coating and flavor balance.

Plating & Serving