Crispy Potatoes with Sambal Hot Honey

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Description

This dish combines golden, crunchy roasted potatoes with a sweet, spicy, and tangy glaze of sambal oelek and hot honey. The potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and coated in a sticky, flavor-packed sauce that balances heat and sweetness perfectly. It’s a versatile recipe that works as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and can be easily adjusted to your spice preference.

Ingredients For Crispy Potatoes with Sambal Hot Honey

  • 1 ½ lbs (700 g) baby potatoes (or Yukon gold/red potatoes), halved

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Sambal Hot Honey Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp honey

  • 2 tbsp sambal oelek (or chili paste of choice)

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

  • 1 tbsp butter

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped scallions

  • Sesame seeds

  • Fresh cilantro

 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Prepare potatoes: Rinse and pat dry potatoes. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Roast: Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Roast for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

  4. Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter. Stir in honey, sambal oelek, soy sauce, and vinegar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

  5. Coat potatoes: Transfer crispy potatoes to a large bowl. Pour the hot honey sambal sauce over and toss until well coated.

  6. Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, scallions, or cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Sambal oelek adds a straight chili heat; if you prefer smoky depth, try harissa or gochujang.

  • Adjust honey for more sweetness if sauce feels too spicy.

  • Air fryer option: Cook potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway.

  • Best served fresh for maximum crispiness.

Tips

  • Extra crispy hack: Parboil potatoes for 5 minutes before roasting, then rough up edges in a colander before baking.

  • Balance heat: If sambal is too strong, cut with extra butter or a drizzle of lime juice.

  • Make it a meal: Serve with fried eggs, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies for a complete dish.

 Servings

  • Makes: 4 servings (side dish portion)

 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 220 kcal

  • Carbs: 36 g

  • Protein: 3 g

  • Fat: 7 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Sugar: 10 g

  • Sodium: 320 mg

 Benefits

  • Potatoes: Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber.

  • Sambal (chili paste): Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism.

  • Honey: Natural antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

  • Balanced flavor: Satisfies sweet, salty, and spicy cravings in one dish.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can roast the potatoes ahead, but toss in the sambal hot honey sauce only before serving to keep them crispy.

Q2: What can I substitute for sambal oelek?
A: Use sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or gochujang for different flavor profiles.

Q3: Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
A: Yes! Replace butter with vegan butter or oil, and swap honey with maple syrup or agave.

Q4: Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
A: Absolutely! They’ll add a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the hot honey glaze.

Q5: How do I reduce the spice level?
A: Use less sambal or mix in extra honey and butter to mellow out the heat.

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