This simple Asian Dipping Sauce is packed with flavor and perfect for just about anything-dumplings, spring rolls, or sushi.
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It combines soy sauce, fresh lime juice or vinegar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of heat from chili peppers to create a balance of sweet, salty, and spicy.
The best part? It's super easy to make, and you can tweak it to suit your taste. Once you try it, you'll want to keep it on hand for all your dipping needs!
What You'll Need to Make Asian Dipping Sauce
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This brings that signature savory, salty base without being overpowering.
- Fresh Lime Juice or Rice Wine Vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens the sauce and cuts through the salt.
- Water: Helps balance out the strong flavors so nothing is too intense.
- Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to offset the salt and spice.
- Thai Bird's Eye Chili Peppers or Crushed Chili Flakes: A little heat goes a long way, giving the sauce a nice kick.
- Ground Chili Paste: Adds extra depth to the spice for a fuller, more robust flavor.
- Fresh Ginger: Brings a fresh, slightly spicy zing to the mix.
- Garlic: Adds a bold, savory punch that rounds everything out.
- Cilantro Leaves/Green Onion: These fresh herbs give the sauce a nice burst of flavor and color.
- Sesame Oil (optional): A dash of nuttiness that adds richness and warmth.
How to Make Asian Dipping Sauce
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
- Prep the Aromatics: Pound or finely chop the garlic, chilies, chili paste, and ginger into a paste.
- Mix the Sauce: Combine all the ingredients in a jar and shake well until the sugar dissolves.
- Store and Serve: Refrigerate for up to a week.
Camila's Tips and Variations
- Adjust the Heat: For milder spice, reduce the amount of chili peppers or flakes.
- Swap the Herbs: If you're not a fan of cilantro, use green onions.
- Sweetness Control: Adjust the sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with less and add more as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- My sauce is too salty. What can I do?
Dilute it with a little more water or add a splash of lime juice or vinegar to balance the saltiness. - Can I make it spicier?
Yes! Just add more chili paste or chili flakes. You can also throw in an extra Thai chili for a real kick. - Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium?
Yes, but it will make the sauce saltier. If using regular soy sauce, reduce the amount or add more water to balance.
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Recipe
Easy Asian Dipping Sauce
This simple Asian Dipping Sauce is packed with flavor and perfect for just about anything-dumplings, spring rolls, or sushi. It combines soy sauce, fresh lime juice or vinegar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of heat from chili peppers to create a balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. The best part? It's super easy to make, and you can tweak it to suit your taste. Once you try it, you'll want to keep it on hand for all your dipping needs!
Equipment
Ingredients
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice with pulp or rice wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons sugar , or as needed
- 2 Thai bird's eye chili peppers, or 1 teaspoon crushed chili pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon ground chili paste
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger , peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small garlic
- 3 tablespoon cilantro leaves and steams or green onion , finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil , optional
Instructions
- Place the garlic, chilies, chili paste, and ginger in a mortar and pestle to pound into a paste, or chop them finely by hand.
- Put all the ingredients into a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
Notes
How to Store
The sauce will keep for up to one week if refrigerated.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Easy Asian Dipping Sauce
Amount per Serving
Calories
16
% Daily Value*
Fat
0.4
g
1
%
Saturated Fat
0.1
g
1
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
0.2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
0.1
g
Sodium
192
mg
8
%
Potassium
26
mg
1
%
Carbohydrates
3
g
1
%
Fiber
0.1
g
0
%
Sugar
2
g
2
%
Protein
1
g
2
%
Vitamin A
30
IU
1
%
Vitamin C
0.2
mg
0
%
Calcium
3
mg
0
%
Iron
0.1
mg
1
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using standard data sources. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes. This information is for general reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.
