Get ready to elevate your taste buds with the magic of Vietnamese dipping sauce! This isn’t just any condiment – it’s the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine, bringing life to everything from spring rolls to grilled meats. Known as nước chấm in Vietnamese, this sauce is a perfect harmony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors that’ll make your mouth water.
My love affair with this sauce began during a backpacking trip through Vietnam. I was amazed at how this simple concoction could transform even the most basic dishes into something extraordinary. After countless attempts to recreate it at home, I’ve finally nailed down the perfect recipe.
What makes this Vietnamese dipping sauce special is its delicate balance of flavors. The key lies in using high-quality fish sauce and fresh lime juice – these two ingredients create the base that sets this sauce apart. A touch of garlic adds depth, while chili brings just the right amount of heat.
The aroma is intoxicating – a blend of pungent fish sauce, zesty lime, and fragrant herbs that instantly transports you to the bustling streets of Hanoi.
This versatile sauce pairs beautifully with Stuffed Cabbage Rolls or drizzled over Hibachi Shrimp for an Asian fusion twist.
So grab your whisk and let’s dive into the world of Vietnamese flavors! I can’t wait to hear how you customize this sauce to make it your own.
Vietnamese Dipping Sauce
Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Vegetable peeler
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 red Thai chile, thinly sliced
- 1⁄4 cup Asian fish sauce
- 1⁄4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1⁄2 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1⁄4 carrot
Instructions
- Using a vegetable peeler, slice the carrot lengthwise into thin strips.
- Stack the slices and cut them into fine julienne strips.
- In a bowl, combine the garlic and sugar, mashing them together.
- Add the remaining ingredients and the carrot strips, then mix everything thoroughly.
Notes
- You can also let the julienned carrots marinate in the sauce for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- This allows the carrots to absorb the tangy and savory notes, adding extra dimension to your dish.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 164.1 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 37.7 g |
| Protein | 4.7 g |
| Sugar | 30 g |
Helpful Tips for You!
Tip 1: You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Start with the recommended amount and add more if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
Tip 2: If you’re sensitive to garlic, try using garlic-infused oil for a milder flavor, or omit it entirely and substitute with a small amount of onion or shallot for a different but complementary taste.