Hoisin Peanut Sauce for Spring rolls (Tương Chấm Gỏi Cuốn)

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Indulge in the rich and enticing flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with this delectable Vietnamese Peanut Dipping Sauce recipe! This versatile condiment, known as Tương Chấm Gỏi Cuốn, is a blend of creamy peanut butter, savory hoisin sauce, and garlic. With its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty notes, this sauce has become a staple in Vietnamese dining, elevating dishes from mundane to magnificent. Whether you’re a fan of spring rolls, grilled meats, or vibrant noodle salads, this sauce is a great addition to make any spring roll taste even better.

This dipping sauce originates from Vietnam and is renowned for its versatility. It’s delicious and balances of sweet, salty, and nutty notes make it the ideal sauce for various Vietnamese dishes. Whether you’re indulging in fresh spring rolls, grilled meats, or vibrant noodle salads, this sauce changes each bite into a culinary delight.

This hoisin peanut dipping sauce is easy to make when some staple pantry items. This was a dipping sauce that really drew me to fall in love with fresh spring rolls. This is particular one of the best dipping sauce for Vietnamese Pork Sausage Skewers (Nem nuong) where you get the flavorful grilled nem nuong with assortment of vegetables and rice paper roll. The combination makes you wanting more!

Why make this?

Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of creamy peanut butter, hoisin sauce, and garlic creates a sauce with a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor. It adds a depth of taste to various dishes.

Versatility: Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce is incredibly versatile. It can be used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, fresh vegetables, or grilled meats. It can also be drizzled over noodles, salads, or used as a marinade for meats before grilling or stir-frying.

Texture: The sauce has a smooth and creamy texture, which contrasts nicely with the crispiness of spring rolls and the tenderness of grilled meats. The addition of crushed peanuts as a garnish enhances the texture, providing a delightful crunch.

Why I love this recipe?

Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter, hoisin sauce, and garlic creates a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors. This unique taste is both comforting and delightful.

Versatility: The sauce’s versatility means it can be paired with a wide variety of dishes, from spring rolls to grilled meats and noodles. Its ability to enhance the flavors of different foods makes it a favorite for many.

Homemade Goodness: Making the sauce at home allows you to appreciate the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Homemade sauces often taste better than store-bought versions because they are crafted with care and tailored to individual preferences.

Ingredients, Substitution and Variations

Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter serves as the base of the sauce, providing a rich, nutty flavor and a smooth texture.

Hoisin Sauce: Hoisin sauce is a thick, sweet, and salty sauce commonly used in Asian cuisine. It adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the dipping sauce.

Garlic: Minced garlic adds a savory and aromatic element to the sauce, enhancing its taste.

Sriracha Sauce (Optional): For those who enjoy a bit of heat, Sriracha sauce, a popular chili sauce, can be added to provide spiciness to the dipping sauce.

Water: Water is used to adjust the consistency of the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little warm water until you achieve the desired thickness.

How to enjoy

1. Dipping Sauce for Spring Rolls:

Serve Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce as a classic accompaniment for fresh spring rolls. Dip the rolls, filled with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes shrimp or tofu, into the sauce for a burst of flavor.

2. Dressing for Noodle Salads:

Toss cooked and chilled rice noodles, along with fresh vegetables, herbs, and protein like grilled chicken or tofu, in the peanut sauce. It makes for a delightful and refreshing noodle salad.

3. Grilled Meats or Seafood:

Use the sauce as a dipping or drizzling sauce for grilled meats (such as chicken, pork, or beef) or seafood (like shrimp or fish). The nutty flavor complements the smokiness of the grilled items perfectly.

4. Stir-Fry Sauce:

Thin the peanut sauce with a bit of water or broth and use it as a flavorful stir-fry sauce. It adds a unique twist to your stir-fried vegetables and protein.

5. Rice Vermicelli Bowls:

Create Vietnamese rice vermicelli bowls (bun) by layering cooked rice vermicelli noodles with fresh vegetables, herbs, bean sprouts, and your choice of protein. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the top for a burst of flavor.

6. Sandwich Spread:

Use the sauce as a spread for banh mi sandwiches. Slather it on the bread before adding your choice of fillings, creating a fusion of flavors in every bite.

7. Dipping Sauce for Vegetables:

Cut up raw vegetables like cucumber, carrot sticks, bell peppers, and snap peas. Use the peanut sauce as a dip for a healthy and tasty snack.

8. Noodle Soups:

Add a spoonful of peanut sauce to your noodle soup (such as pho or ramen) for a unique twist. It adds creaminess and depth to the broth.

9. Marinade for Grilled Tofu:

Marinate blocks of tofu in the peanut sauce before grilling or baking. It infuses the tofu with rich, nutty flavors.

Success tips on making the best Hoisin Peanut Sauce

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for good quality peanut butter, hoisin sauce and other ingredients. Fresh, high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.

Balance the Flavors: Achieving the right balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors is key. Taste the sauce as you go along and adjust the sweetness, saltiness, and spiciness according to your preference. Balance is the key to a great dipping sauce.

Consistency Matters: Pay attention to the sauce’s consistency. It should be smooth and creamy, but not too thick. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Garlic Infusion: Allowing the minced garlic to sit in the sauce for a little while (around 10-15 minutes) before serving can enhance the flavor. This time allows the garlic to infuse its taste into the sauce, adding depth.

Experiment with Spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider experimenting with different types of spicy elements. Sriracha sauce is commonly used, but you can also try adding minced fresh chili or chili flakes for a different level of spice.

Garnish Thoughtfully: Garnishing the sauce with crushed peanuts and chopped cilantro not only adds texture and freshness but also visual appeal. It’s the finishing touch that makes your sauce look and taste even better.

Allow Time for Melding: Letting the sauce sit for about 10-15 minutes after preparation allows the flavors to meld together. This resting period helps the sauce develop a more cohesive and well-rounded taste.

FAQs

1. What are the main ingredients in Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce?

The main ingredients in Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce, typically include creamy peanut butter, hoisin sauce, garlic, and sometimes Sriracha sauce for spice. Water is also added to achieve the desired consistency.

2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a sauce with a bit of texture. It will give your dipping sauce a crunchier feel due to the peanut pieces.

3. Is Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce gluten-free?

The sauce can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free hoisin sauce.

4. How long does Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce last?

If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce can last for about 1 to 2 weeks. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before using it after an extended period.

5. Can I freeze Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce?

It’s not recommended to freeze peanut dipping sauce as the texture may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a short duration.

6. What dishes can I serve with Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce?

Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce is incredibly versatile. It can be served with spring rolls with nem nuong, fresh vegetables, grilled meats (such as satay), rice noodles, and salads. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for various appetizers and snacks.

7. How can I make the sauce spicier?

If you want to add more spice to the sauce, increase the amount of Sriracha sauce or add some minced fresh chili peppers. Remember to taste as you go to avoid making the sauce too spicy for your liking.

8. Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce in advance. In fact, the flavors often meld together better if the sauce is allowed to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. However, for the freshest taste, it’s best to consume it within a day or two of making.

Other Related Recipes

Nem Nuong – Vietnamese Pork Sausage Skewers can be made at home and dipped in this hoiscan peanut sauce.

Nuoc Cham Chay – Vietnamese Vegan Dipping Sauce is a great alternative to hoist peanut sauce. This is savory, sweet and salty all combined.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chili Sauce (Sot Sa Te) – A great sauce to give your dishes a nice kick.

Vienamese Chili Salt – This salt is easy to make and only requires three ingredients

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