Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game? Forget bland dips – prepare for a flavor explosion with this incredibly addictive anchovy dipping sauce! This isn't your grandma's fishy sauce; it's a sophisticated blend of salty anchovies, bright lemon, fragrant garlic, and a touch of sweetness that will leave you wanting more. It's incredibly versatile, perfect for crudités, crusty bread, grilled meats, or even as a vibrant addition to your pasta dishes. The rich, umami flavor is surprisingly moreish, and the simple ingredient list belies the depth of flavor achieved.
This anchovy dipping sauce is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy preparation times; this recipe is quick, clean, and delivers maximum flavor impact. Ready to transform your next gathering? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this unforgettable dipping sauce together.
Tools Needed
- Pestle and mortar
- Jar with glass lid
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Lemons: 2
- Garlic: 7 cloves
- Chili peppers: 5
- Anchovy fish sauce: 400 grams
- Sugar: 4 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon (optional)
- MSG: 1/3 tablespoon
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Aromatics
- Squeeze the juice from 2 lemons. Remove the seeds. If lemons are low in juice, rub them on a cutting board to soften them before squeezing.
- Crush 7 cloves of garlic and 5 chili peppers using a pestle and mortar until pureed.
Step 2. Combine the Sauce Base
- In a bowl, combine 400 grams of anchovy fish sauce, 4 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/3 tablespoon of MSG.
- Add 5 tablespoons of lemon juice (adjust according to your preference).
- Add the crushed chili and garlic mixture.
- Stir well to dissolve the sugar and spices. Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed. Add more sugar or lemon juice accordingly.
Step 3. Adjust and Store
- Transfer the mixture to a jar with a glass lid and refrigerate.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Using lemons with seeds results in a more delicious sauce.
- For a smoother sauce, remove any powder that may form on the surface.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice, sugar, and salt to your liking.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the anchovies?
While anchovies provide the unique umami flavor, you can try using a high-quality fish sauce as a substitute. However, the flavor profile will be different.
2. How long can I store the sauce?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavor may even improve slightly over time.
3. What can I serve this sauce with?
This sauce is incredibly versatile! Try it with crudités, grilled meats, steamed vegetables, crusty bread, or even as a pasta sauce addition.
This delicious anchovy fish sauce is a culinary adventure waiting to happen. From its simple preparation to its complex and rewarding flavors, it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor this seemingly simple sauce delivers!