This easy-to-make Nuoc Cham recipe is the perfect way to elevate any meal prep.

Indulge your taste buds in the vibrant and delectable world of Vietnamese-inspired dressing/dipping sauce. This easy-to-make Nước chấm recipe is the perfect way to elevate any meal prep. This versatile dipping sauce or dressing is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. I highly recommend you create this mouthwatering sauce that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

– Up to 3/4 cup fish sauce

– 1 cup water

– 1 cup sugar

– 1/2 cup Meyer lemon juice or lime 

– 5 cloves garlic, minced

– 5-6 red Thai chili peppers (adjust the quantity based on your spice preference)

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, bring water to a boil. Turn the heat off and add sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. Transfer to a big bowl and set aside to let it cool down a bit.

2. In a food processor, add the Thai chilis and garlic. Let that blend until the chilis and garlic are well minced.

3. Add the Meyer lemon juice to the Thai Chili mixture and pour it into the water and sugar mixture.

4. Slowly pour in the fish sauce; start with 1/2 cup, give it a taste. Slowly pour more fish sauce and adjust to your liking. 

5. Store the mixture in a big jar with a sealed lid. Keep it refrigerated and enjoy it as a dipping sauce or as dressing.

Here are five tips to master the art of making Nuoc Cham:

1. Balance is Key:

   Achieving the perfect balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements is crucial for a stellar Nước chấm. Taste as you go and adjust the quantities of sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili to suit your preferences. It’s the harmony of these flavors that makes this sauce genuinely irresistible.

2. Fresh is Best:

   Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients. Freshly squeezed lime juice and recently minced garlic add intense flavor to your Nước chấm. It’s these little details that make a big difference.

3. Experiment with Heat:

   The spiciness of your Nước chấm is entirely customizable. If you like things milder, go easy on the chili peppers. For those who crave heat, feel free to add more. Remember, it’s all about personal taste, so feel free to experiment until you find your perfect spice level.

4. Let It Marinate:

   Give your Nước chấm some time to marinate before serving. Allowing the ingredients to mingle and meld enhances the overall flavor. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes of resting time. During this period, the magic happens, turning a good sauce into an exceptional one.

5. Versatility Rules:

   Nước chấm isn’t just for dipping – it’s a versatile sauce that can elevate various dishes. Try it as a salad dressing or dipping for spring rolls, egg rolls, and grilled seafood.

Congratulations! You’ve just crafted a batch of Nước chấm that’s delicious and incredibly easy to make. With its perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy flavors, this versatile sauce will become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether dipping, drizzling, or marinating, this Nuoc Cham recipe is a culinary game-changer. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a journey of taste that will leave you craving more!

Did you make this recipe? Please tag me on Instagram @melshealthybowl to be featured in my stories.

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