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Nuoc cham sauce served in a bowl
Authentic Vietnamese Nuoc Cham sauce

Vietnamese Nuoc Cham (Dipping Sauce)

Author: Flavelo
Sauces and Gravies Recipes Vegetarian & Vegan Dishes
This sauce is the soul of Vietnamese cuisine. Present on every table, it's a masterclass in balance: salty (fish sauce), sweet (sugar), sour (lime), and spicy (chili). While the smell of fish sauce can be strong, the taste is incredibly harmonious and refreshing.
🕒 Prep Time 10 mins
⌛ Total Time 10 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 45 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Vietnamese

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Small bowl
  • Sharp knife

Allergen Information

⚠️ Fish

Instructions

1 ✓

Mince garlic and chili into a fine paste.

Tip: Fine mincing releases oils and helps them float on top rather than sinking.
2 ✓

Dissolve sugar in warm water.

Tip: Sugar dissolves poorly in cold fish sauce.
3 ✓

Stir in lime juice and fish sauce. Taste! It should be bold but balanced.

Tip: Acidity and sweetness should mask the raw fishiness.
4 ✓

Stir in garlic, chili, and carrots. Let sit 10 minutes.

Tip: Allows flavors to diffuse.

Recipe FAQ

Which fish sauce to buy?
Look for high protein content and minimal ingredients (anchovy, salt). Brands like Red Boat, Squid, or Three Crabs are good.
Too salty?
Dilute with a bit more water and lime juice.

Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp Fish Sauce (good quality)
  • 3 tbsp warm water
  • 1.5 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 whole fresh Bird's Eye chili (or red jalapeño)
  • 1 tbsp shredded carrot (optional, for garnish)