100 Authentic Vietnamese Dipping Sauce Nuoc Cham Recipe

Unlock the secrets of a truly authentic Vietnamese Nuoc Cham dipping sauce, passed down through generations! This recipe, originating from a Vietnamese family, delivers the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Unlike other versions, this recipe boasts a unique family twist, resulting in a taste you won't find anywhere else. Perfect for dipping spring rolls and fresh salad rolls (goi cuon), or elevating your rice noodle salads to new heights. Make a large batch – it keeps incredibly well in the fridge for months! Prepare to impress your friends and family with this irresistible, authentic Vietnamese culinary experience.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 235.3 kcal
Protein 5g
Rating 5.0 (5 Reviews)
100 Authentic Vietnamese Dipping Sauce Nuoc Cham

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for 100 Authentic Vietnamese Dipping Sauce Nuoc Cham

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Limes, Juice Of
  • White Vinegar
  • 1/2 cup fish sauce (adjust to taste)
  • White Sugar
  • Chili Garlic Sauce
  • Cold Water

How to Make 100 Authentic Vietnamese Dipping Sauce Nuoc Cham

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and fish sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
  2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  4. While the mixture cools, finely mince the garlic and finely slice the chilies (adjust quantity to your spice preference).
  5. Add the minced garlic, sliced chilies, and lime juice to the cooled sauce.
  6. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more sugar for sweetness, lime juice for tartness, or chilies for heat.
  8. Let the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. The longer it rests, the better it tastes!
  9. Serve with your favorite spring rolls, fresh salad rolls, or use as a vibrant salad dressing. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several months.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

109 g

Sugar

207g

Fat

0g

Carbs

19g