Nuoc Cham (Vietnamese Sauce)

May 15, 2023May 15, 20230 12

Aromatic and flavorful Nuoc Cham Vietnamese sauce recipe

by The Chefin Sauce

Prep

5 min

Cook

0 min

Ready In

5 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

Ingredients

	3 tablespoons lime juice
	2 tablespoons fish sauce , or more to taste
	2 tablespoons white sugar , or more to taste
	1 tablespoon water
	1 red chile pepper , thinly sliced , or more to taste ( optional )
	1 clove garlic , thinly sliced ( optional )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

Sugar

Fat

Nuoc Cham is a classic Vietnamese sauce that is traditionally used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or served with grilled meats, salads, and noodle bowls. This sauce is made with just a few simple ingredients such as lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and red chile pepper that are commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine to balance sour, sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. Nuoc Cham is also a versatile sauce that can be customized by adjusting the amount of sugar, fish sauce, or red chile pepper to your liking. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and provides an easy way to add a burst of flavor to any dish.

Instructions

1.	In a bowl, mix lime juice, fish sauce, water and sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2.	Add the sliced red chile pepper and garlic (if using) and stir to combine.
3.	Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning by adding more fish sauce or sugar to your liking.
4.	Serve the sauce with your favorite Vietnamese dishes or as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or grilled meats.

PROS

Nuoc Cham is a delicious and versatile sauce that adds a burst of flavor to any dish it is paired with.

It is easy to make with just a few ingredients and takes only a few minutes.

CONS

The sauce contains a high amount of sodium due to the fish sauce used, which should be consumed in moderation by individuals with high blood pressure.

The addition of sugar may also not be suitable for individuals with diabetes.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite its high sodium content, fish sauce used in Nuoc Cham contains essential amino acids and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.
Lime juice, garlic, and red chile pepper used in the sauce are also rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory compounds that support the immune system and improve digestion.