Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its abundance of fresh vegetables and herbs. Nước chấm is a staple of Vietnamese cooking—a versatile dipping sauce known for its perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors. Our version adds a Thai twist to this famous sauce with an extra layer of lemongrass from Watcharee’s Lemongrass Chili Sauce. Enjoy it over noodle bowls, with grilled meats, or alongside fresh wraps for an authentic Southeast Asian flavor experience made easy at home.
In a small bowl, combine garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, red chilies, sugar, water, and Watcharee’s Lemongrass Chili Sauce.
Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the flavors are balanced.
Let the sauce sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve as a dipping sauce or drizzle over noodle bowls. Also delicious with lettuce wraps, fresh vegetables, and grilled meat or tofu. Pairs well with grilled chicken, tofu, or prawns.
Recipe Note
Adjust the balance: Add more lime juice for extra brightness or a touch more sugar to soften the heat and saltiness.
Control the spice level: Remove chili seeds for milder heat or add more chilies for a spicier sauce.
Make it vegetarian/vegan: Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or a plant-based fish sauce alternative.
Best when fresh: Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Versatile use: Perfect as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, a dressing for noodle bowls, or a finishing sauce for grilled meats, tofu, or roasted vegetables.
