Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The beauty of this easy dumpling sauce lies in its versatility and speed. Whether you’re using store-bought frozen dumplings or homemade ones, this sauce makes them taste restaurant-quality. Customize it to your spice preference with chili crisp or chili garlic sauce for that extra zing. Plus, it’s ready in just 5 minutes!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or black or distilled vinegar)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon chili crisp (optional, or substitute with chili garlic sauce or another hot sauce)
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, hot water, sesame oil, garlic, sesame seeds, and chili crisp (if using).
- Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Prepare your dumplings, potstickers, or wontons as desired.
- Once ready, dip the dumplings into the sauce and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes enough sauce for about 8-10 dumplings, potstickers, or wontons.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Adjust the spice level by adding more chili crisp, chili garlic sauce, or sriracha to suit your taste.
- For a slightly sweeter sauce, increase the sugar slightly.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can skip the sesame seeds.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. No need to reheat—just stir it well before serving if it has separated.
FAQs
1. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a month.
2. Can I make this sauce without chili crisp?
Absolutely! You can use chili garlic sauce or even a bit of sriracha for heat if you prefer.
3. Is this sauce vegan?
Yes, this sauce is entirely vegan-friendly as long as you use a plant-based soy sauce.
4. Can I use this sauce for other foods?
Yes, this sauce also works wonderfully as a dipping sauce for chicken wings, spring rolls, or even drizzled over rice.
5. What if my sauce is too salty?
If the sauce is too salty, add a bit more sugar or water to balance it out.
6. How can I thicken this sauce?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix in a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in water, and heat gently to thicken.
7. Can I freeze the sauce?
It’s best to store this sauce in the fridge, as freezing may alter the texture.
8. Is this sauce gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free soy sauce if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
9. How spicy is this sauce?
The spice level depends on the amount of chili crisp or hot sauce you add. Start with a little and adjust to your preference.
10. Can I use regular vinegar instead of rice vinegar?
Yes, you can use regular distilled vinegar, but rice vinegar adds a unique, milder flavor to the sauce.
Conclusion
This easy dumpling sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves dumplings or Asian-inspired meals. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and customizable spice levels, it’ll become your go-to dipping sauce in no time. Whether you’re serving it with dumplings, potstickers, or even chicken wings, this sauce will surely impress!
