Nuoc cham is a traditional Vietnamese dipping sauce that balances fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili in a single bowl. This 5-minute version requires no cooking and lets you adjust the flavor to taste.
Check what you already have. We'll leave it off your shopping list.
CookOS may earn a commission from Instacart orders.
Prices vary by store
*Service fees apply. Instacart® and the Instacart logo are registered trademarks of Maplebear Inc. d/b/a Instacart.
Combine the garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, chili garlic sauce, sugar, and water in a small bowl. Mix well.
Taste some of the sauce to ensure it's seasoned to your liking. If you want it to taste more sour, add more lime juice. If you want it to taste sweeter, add more sugar.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. No reheating needed; serve cold or at room temperature.
Fish sauce is essential to authentic nuoc cham flavor. If unavailable, soy sauce can substitute, though the taste will differ significantly.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors remain balanced throughout.
Yes. Taste after combining and add more lime juice for sourness or more sugar for sweetness to suit your preference.
Serve with spring rolls, grilled meats, pho, banh mi, and fresh vegetables. It's a versatile Vietnamese condiment.
Yes, prepare up to 1 week ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. Mix well before serving.
