Non-Indonesians will describe 'sambal' as a condiment. However, for most Indonesians, sambal can be considered as a staple food. Sambal is a chili-based sauce. The taste varies from mild to very spicy.

There are many kinds of sambals in Indonesia and they are usually available on every dining table of Indonesian family. A popular type of sambal is a mixture of chillies, shallots, tomatoes, garlic, lime, sugar, salt,and shrimp paste. These fresh ingredients are ground using a stone mortar.

Sambals are usually served with steamed rice and main dishes like fried chicken, grilled fish, or soybean cakes.