Thai Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce
Prepare yourself for an irresistible Thai experience with this delightful Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce, perfect for accompanying Thai barbecued chicken, spring rolls, or crispy fried won-tons. Inspired by the revered Thai cookbook “True Thai,” this sauce combines sweet, spicy, and tangy elements to create a flavor sensation that will elevate any dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a taste of Thailand, this recipe is your go-to for a quick and delectable dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar – The base of our sauce, giving it that sweet and sticky texture.
- 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar – Provides the necessary tangy contrast to balance the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon chili-garlic sauce – Adds the essential spicy kick that defines this sauce.
Directions
-
Combine Vinegar and Sugar: In a small saucepan, pour in the distilled white vinegar and 1/2 cup of sugar. Stir gently to begin dissolving the sugar into the vinegar.
-
Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a low boil. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent any sugar from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
-
Add Remaining Sugar: Once the initial sugar has dissolved and the mixture is boiling, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar to the saucepan. Stir continuously as the mixture comes to a boil again. This step ensures that the sauce achieves the desired sticky consistency.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the salt. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes. Continue to stir occasionally to maintain a smooth, consistent texture.
-
Incorporate Chili-Garlic Sauce: Stir in the chili-garlic sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
-
Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken further, reaching the perfect consistency for dipping.
-
Serving Suggestions: Serve this sauce at room temperature alongside Thai barbecued chicken, spring rolls, or fried won-tons. It’s also great as a flavorful topping for other dishes or as a zesty condiment.
-
Storage: Transfer the sauce to a clean jar or airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 weeks, although it may not last that long due to its deliciousness!
Notes
- Yield: This recipe makes approximately 1 1/2 cups of Thai Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce, perfect for multiple servings or as a flavorful gift for friends and family.
- Tip: If you prefer a milder sauce, adjust the amount of chili-garlic sauce to taste, or use a milder variant.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy dipping sauce that brings a touch of exotic flair to any meal! 🌶️🍗🍤
