Bright, bold, and quintessentially Vietnamese, Nuoc Cham is a tangy dipping sauce that perfectly balances sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors. Made with a harmonious blend of fish sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, granulated sugar, and a touch of warm water, this versatile condiment is elevated with minced garlic and finely sliced red chili for a flavorful kick. Optional rice vinegar adds a gentle tang, making it easy to customize to your taste. Ready in just 10 minutes, this staple sauce pairs beautifully with everything from spring rolls and egg rolls to grilled meats and vibrant vermicelli bowls. Elevate your meals with this authentic and effortless recipe for the ultimate Vietnamese flavor experience.
In a mixing bowl, dissolve the granulated sugar in the warm water by stirring until fully combined.
Add the fish sauce and lime juice to the bowl and stir well to combine. Adjust sweetness or tartness if needed by slightly increasing sugar or lime juice.
Stir in the minced garlic and finely sliced red chili for extra flavor and heat.
If desired, add 1 teaspoon of unseasoned rice vinegar for an additional layer of tanginess.
Taste the sauce and adjust the balance of saltiness, sweetness, tanginess, or spiciness according to your preference.
Let the sauce sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve immediately as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, egg rolls, or grilled dishes, or drizzle over vermicelli bowls and salads.
Calories |
151 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.2 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3772 mg | 164% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 38.0 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.2 g | ||
| Protein | 3.5 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 51 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 0.7 mg | 4% | |
| Potassium | 380 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.