Gotu Kola Sambol
Experience the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka with this refreshing Gotu Kola Sambol. Fresh, peppery gotu kola leaves are finely chopped and tossed with thinly sliced red onion, fiery green chili, and sweet grated coconut, all brightened by a zesty lime dressing. This healthy, textural side dish is a perfect accompaniment to rice and curries, offering a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 15 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
- 200 ggotu kola, finely chopped
- 0.5 pcsred onion, finely sliced
- 0.5 cupgrated coconut, fresh or frozen, thawed
- 1 pcsgreen chili, finely chopped
- 1 pcslime, juiced
- 0.5 tspsalt
Equipment
Mixing bowl · Chef's knife · Cutting board · Citrus juicer (optional) · Kitchen towel
The method
Step by step
- 1
Thoroughly rinse the gotu kola leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Inspect the leaves for any discolored or damaged parts and discard them.
- 2
Gently pat the washed gotu kola leaves completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Ensuring the leaves are very dry is crucial to prevent a watery sambol and maintain its crisp texture.
- 3
Stack the dried gotu kola leaves and finely chop them into small, uniform pieces.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: A very sharp knife will help achieve clean cuts without bruising the leaves. Aim for pieces roughly the size of confetti.
- 4
Peel and thinly slice the red onion into crescent moons or finely dice it, depending on your preference for texture.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: For a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 5-10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before adding to the sambol.
- 5
Trim the stem from the green chili and finely chop it. For less heat, remove the seeds and white pith before chopping.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Wear gloves when handling chilies to prevent skin irritation, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
- 6
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped gotu kola, thinly sliced red onion, grated coconut, and chopped green chili.
About 1 min
- 7
Squeeze the fresh lime juice directly into the bowl with the other ingredients.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Roll the lime on a countertop before cutting to maximize juice extraction.
- 8
Add the salt to the mixture.
- 9
Using clean hands, gently massage and mix all the ingredients together for 1 to 2 minutes.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: This massaging action helps to slightly soften the gotu kola, release its natural juices, and infuse all the flavors, but avoid overmixing to retain some crunch.
- 10
Taste the sambol and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or lime juice to achieve your desired balance of flavors.
Cook’s note: The sambol should be bright, tangy, and slightly spicy with a hint of saltiness.
- 11
Serve the Gotu Kola Sambol immediately as a vibrant side dish.
Keep it good
Gotu Kola Sambol is traditionally served alongside rice and a variety of Sri Lankan curries, offering a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken. For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly toast the grated coconut before adding it to the sambol. If gotu kola is unavailable, a similar peppery green like watercress or arugula could be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will differ.
Store leftover Gotu Kola Sambol in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
This sambol is best enjoyed fresh and cold. Reheating is not recommended as it will compromise the texture and freshness of the ingredients.
More recipes
All recipesmain course
Filipino Sweet Spaghetti
This unique spaghetti dish features a rich, sweet tomato sauce generously studded with sliced hot dogs and ground pork. It's a beloved Filipino comfort food, often served at parties and family gatherings. The sweetness comes from banana ketchup, making it distinct from traditional Italian pasta.
55 min 723 kcalbreakfast
Vegan Pistolet
This recipe creates a delightful vegan interpretation of the classic Belgian Pistolet, a small, round bread roll with a crisp crust and soft interior. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch, these rolls are traditionally sliced open and filled with various toppings. This version uses plant-based milk and butter substitutes to achieve the same beloved texture and flavor.
3 hr 20 mindessert
Biancomangiare
This classic Sicilian dessert is a delicate, creamy pudding with a subtle almond flavor. Traditionally made with almond milk, it's a naturally dairy-free and elegant sweet treat. Serve chilled with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh berries.
2 hr 25 min 111 kcalmain course
Mjadara
This traditional Lebanese dish combines tender lentils and fluffy rice with deeply caramelized onions, offering a comforting and flavorful meal. It's a simple yet satisfying plant-based staple, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. Serve it with a fresh salad or plain yogurt for a complete experience.
1 hr 493 kcalmain course
Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh is a fragrant and rich lamb curry from Kashmir, known for its vibrant red color and aromatic spices. This recipe features tender lamb cooked in a flavorful gravy with a blend of traditional Indian spices.
1 hr 55 min 581 kcalside dish
Coconut Rice
Fluffy, fragrant coconut rice that makes a perfect accompaniment to many Southeast Asian dishes. The subtle sweetness and creamy texture complement spicy and savory flavors beautifully.
35 min 564 kcalmain course
Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli with Sage Butter
This classic Italian dish features homemade pasta filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach. Tossed in a simple yet aromatic sage butter sauce, it's a comforting and elegant meal perfect for any occasion. The fresh pasta offers a tender bite that perfectly complements the rich filling.
1 hr 45 min 702 kcal