Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (approximately 1 lime, or substitute with white vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon sugar
- 6 tablespoons hot water
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
Optional Ingredients
- Carrots, thinly sliced (for color)
- 1 fresh birds eye chili pepper, finely chopped (for a bit of spiciness)
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic: Peel a clove of garlic and finely chop it. Place the chopped garlic into a small bowl or jar if preparing a larger batch.
- Add lime juice and let rest: Cut the lime in half and squeeze all the juice into the bowl with the garlic. Allow the mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes; the acidity from the lime mellows the sharp raw garlic flavor.
- Dissolve sugar: After resting, add 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon of sugar to the garlic-lime mixture. Pour in 6 tablespoons of hot water and stir thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add fish sauce: Pour in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce and mix all ingredients together evenly to combine the flavors.
- Optional additions and serving: If desired, add thin carrot slices and finely chopped fresh birds eye chili pepper for color and spice. Nuoc Cham can be used immediately or stored chilled in the refrigerator for later use.
Notes
- The acid resting time helps reduce garlic’s pungency and enhances flavor balance.
- Adjust sugar and lime juice to taste for sweeter or tarter preferences.
- Add fresh chili sparingly if sensitive to heat.
- Nuoc Cham is a versatile condiment, perfect for dipping spring rolls, drizzling over grilled dishes, or mixing in salads.
- Store refrigerated for up to one week in a sealed container.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
