Sakay

Sakay

Sakay (sah-KAI)

Malagasy Hot Chili Paste

Prep Time 15 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
12
🔥 Calories 32 kcal

A fiery, aromatic condiment of crushed chilies, garlic, ginger, and oil, used to enliven every dish on the Malagasy table.

Nutrition & Info

30 kcal per serving
Protein 0.5g
Carbs 3.0g
Fat 2.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

mortar and pestle or blender small jar

Presentation Guide

Vessel: small ceramic dish

Garnishes: whole chili

Accompaniments: any Malagasy dish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Remove stems from chilies.

  2. 2

    Pound chilies, garlic, ginger, and salt in a mortar until a rough paste forms.

  3. 3

    Stir in oil and lime juice.

  4. 4

    Transfer to a jar. Let rest 30 min for flavors to meld.

  5. 5

    Serve as a table condiment alongside any dish.

💡

Did You Know?

No Malagasy table is complete without a small dish of sakay — guests are expected to add as much heat as they like.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • mortar and pestle or blender
  • small jar

Garnishing

whole chili

Accompaniments

any Malagasy dish

The Story Behind Sakay

Chilies arrived in Madagascar via Portuguese traders in the 16th century and were immediately embraced. Sakay became the universal condiment of the island, with each family guarding their own recipe and preferred chili variety.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed condiment, any meal 📜 Origins: Centuries old

Comments (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!