Nuoc Cham (Vietnamese Hot Sauce)
Description
Nuoc Cham is the vibrant heart of Vietnamese cuisine, offering a perfect balance of salty, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. This quick-to-make sauce combines the umami depth of fish sauce with the sharp acidity of fresh lime juice and the heat of red pepper flakes. It serves as an essential dipping companion for fresh summer rolls, vermicelli noodles, and grilled meats like pork or chicken. The addition of minced garlic and lime zest adds aromatic complexity, while sugar rounds out the edges for a harmonious taste. Unlike heavy cream-based sauces, this light condiment cuts through rich flavors, cleansing the palate between bites. It is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to your preference for sweetness or heat. Keep a jar in your fridge for an instant flavor boost to salads or steamed vegetables.Ingredients
Directions
-
Place the minced garlic, minced lime peel, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small mixing bowl.
-
Add the lime juice, fish sauce, water, and sugar to the bowl.
-
Whisk vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved and all ingredients are well combined.
-
Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness or heat by adding more sugar or red pepper flakes if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 14.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 384.8mg17%
- Total Carbohydrate 3.3g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
- Sugars 2.6g
- Protein 0.3g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
vietnamese, dipping sauce, nuoc cham, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, red pepper flakes, sweet and sour, spring roll dip, summer rolls, grilled pork, umami, tangy, spicy, condiment, fresh herbs, pho sauce, asian cuisine, quick recipe, vegan option
