Our Story
From the original Spice Islands to your kitchen - a journey of authentic flavours and family traditions
From Bandungto Britain
Our story begins with Chef Yossie, born and raised in Bandung, West Java - Indonesia's undisputed culinary capital. Growing up in a city renowned for its incredible food scene, she was immersed in authentic Indonesian flavours from childhood, learning the intricate art of sambal making in her mother's bustling professional catering kitchen.
For over 15 years, Chef Yossie honed her craft in commercial Indonesian kitchens, preparing traditional recipes for hundreds of guests daily. This intensive training taught her the precision, consistency, and quality control that separates professional-grade sambal from home-made attempts. She mastered the delicate balance of heat, seasoning, and texture that makes each variety of sambal unique.
When Chef Yossie moved to the UK, she was dismayed by the lack of authentic Indonesian condiments available to British food lovers. The mass-produced alternatives were pale imitations - too sweet, too processed, missing the complex layers of flavour that define real Indonesian sambal. This frustration became her mission: to bring the authentic taste of Indonesia to British kitchens.
Spice Islands Heritage500 Years of Culinary Excellence
Our recipes trace their lineage to the Maluku Islands - the legendary "Spice Islands" that were once the world's only source of nutmeg, cloves, and mace. For over 500 years, these volcanic islands have produced the most prized spices on earth, their mineral-rich soil and tropical climate creating flavours of unparalleled intensity and complexity.
The chilies we use are descendants of varieties that Portuguese and Dutch traders fought wars to control. Grown in volcanic soil that has been enriched by centuries of eruptions, these chilies develop a depth of flavour and heat profile that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Each harvest carries the legacy of generations of Indonesian farmers who have perfected cultivation techniques passed down through families.
When you taste our sambal, you're experiencing the same flavours that have sustained Indonesian communities for centuries - bold, pure, and utterly authentic. We import these premium ingredients directly, ensuring that every jar captures the true essence of the Spice Islands.
Traditional Craftsmanship MeetsModern Quality Standards
Every jar is crafted using the traditional cobek method - stone mortar and pestle grinding that releases essential oils from the chilies, creating the complex layers of flavour that define authentic Indonesian sambal.
🥄 Ancient Techniques
- Stone Grinding: Traditional cobek method releases maximum flavour from chilies
- Small Batches: Hand-crafted quantities ensure consistency and freshness
- Family Recipes: Unchanged formulations passed down through generations
- Artisan Process: Each jar receives individual attention and quality control
🏭 Professional Standards
- Commercial Kitchen: Licensed facility meeting UK food safety regulations
- Quality Control: Consistent heat levels, texture, and flavour profiles
- Premium Sourcing: Direct import of authenticated Indonesian ingredients
- Lancashire Base: UK production ensures freshness and reliable delivery
Our Values
Every jar reflects our commitment to authenticity, quality, and tradition
Traditional sambal making with cobek (stone mortar)
Preserving centuries-old techniques
Handcrafted
Made in small batches using traditional methods passed down through generations
Authentic
Original recipes from the Spice Islands, unchanged for centuries
All Natural
No preservatives, artificial colours, or flavour enhancers - just pure ingredients
Family Recipe
Treasured family recipes shared with love and respect for tradition
Our Mission
We believe that great food brings people together. Our mission is to introduce British food lovers to the incredible depth and complexity of authentic Indonesian flavours.
Every jar we produce supports local farmers in the Maluku Islands, helping to preserve traditional farming methods and provide sustainable livelihoods for Indonesian communities.
We're not just selling sambal – we're sharing a piece of Indonesian culture, one delicious spoonful at a time.
Company Information
Officially incorporated and committed to bringing you authentic Indonesian flavours
Legal Entity
Company Name:
Spice Island Indonesia Ltd
Company Number:
16650562
Incorporation Date:
14th August 2025
Registration Details
Company Type:
Private Limited Company
Registered Office:
England and Wales
Registrar:
Companies House, Cardiff
Incorporated under the Companies Act 2006 as a private company limited by shares