Seeni Sambol Recipe

A sweet, tangy, and spicy caramelized onion relish from Sri Lanka!

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Ingredients

250 g sliced red onion

250 g finely chopped Bombay onion

100 g powdered mackerel

3 tablespoons chili powder

50 g tamarind (dissolved in water)

1 piece of cinnamon bark

6 cardamoms

6 cloves

4 cloves of garlic (crushed)

1 small piece of ginger (crushed)

1 clove of curry powder

3 tablespoons sugar

Salt (to taste)

Juice of 1 lime

6 tablespoons coconut oil

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Method

1. Mix Ingredients:

In a pot or bowl, combine the sliced red onion, finely chopped Bombay onion, powdered mackerel, chili powder, tamarind water, cinnamon, cardamoms, cloves, garlic, ginger, curry powder, sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly by hand.

2. Cook the Sambol:

Transfer the mixture into a pan or pot. Add coconut oil and cook on medium heat, stirring frequently, until the onions caramelize and the mixture becomes thick and fragrant.

3. Finish with Lime Juice:

Remove from the stove. Once cooled slightly, mix in the lime juice for a burst of freshness.

4. Store and Serve:

Spoon the Seeni Sambol into a clean, airtight container.

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Serving Suggestions

Seeni Sambol is a versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with rice, hoppers, bread, or pol roti. Its balance of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a favorite in Sri Lankan households.

Enjoy this rich and flavorful dish!