Sambal oelek, or ulek, is the most common variety of sambal in the United States.

Sambal is in the Inception stage. It’s considered a premium ingredient that can be found on mostly fine-dining menus and at ethnic independents.

Lakewood, Wash.-based chain Ram Restaurant and Brewery adds a sambal aïoli to its Chicken Katsu Sandwich, made with panko-crusted chicken breast, katsu sauce, Asian slaw, spicy sweet-and-sour cucumbers and a brioche bun.