Vietnamese Salad Dressing

There is nothing more delectable than a combination of opposing flavours. Salty, pungent fish sauce is tamed by the sticky sweetness of palm sugar. A salad dressing with a difference!

Course Salad Dressing

Cuisine Asian

Diet Low Lactose

Dietary Egg Free, Gluten Free, Nut Free, Pescatarian

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 15

Servings people

Calories 39kcal

Author Amy Chung

Ingredients

¼ cup palm sugar grated
¼ cup hot water
½ lemon juiced
2 tsp fish sauce
1 garlic clove grated

Metric - US Customary

Instructions

Add grated palm sugar into a small mixing bowl.
Add hot water and whisk to dissolve the palm sugar.
Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until well combined.

Notes

Add a finely chopped red chilli or a few drops of sriracha for some heat. Use chili flakes for a milder spicy kick.
Love your herbs? Add finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or Vietnamese basil to the dressing for a fresh, aromatic flavour. Alternatively, you can infuse the hot water with lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves before mixing with the other ingredients.
For a tamarind twist, replace the lemon juice with tamarind paste for a tangy and slightly fruity flavour. Adjust the amount to taste, as tamarind can be quite potent.
Add a tablespoon of crushed roasted peanuts or peanut butter to give the dressing a nutty richness. You can also add a small amount of toasted sesame oil for a subtle, nutty undertone.
Substitute palm sugar with brown sugar, coconut sugar, or even honey if palm sugar is not available. Each will add a slightly different flavor but will still provide the necessary sweetness. Maple syrup can also be used for a different but equally delicious twist.
For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari. Add a splash of mushroom soy sauce or a bit of miso paste to mimic the umami flavour of fish sauce. Alternatively, you can use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter and less salty option.
For lemon juice replacement, substitute with lime juice for a slightly different citrus flavor. Rice vinegar can also be used as a substitute for a more subtle acidity.
If fresh garlic is too pungent, you can use garlic powder or roasted garlic for a milder flavour. For an extra kick, use shallots or green onions as a substitute.
Use a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari instead of regular fish sauce for a lower sodium Vietnamese salad dressing recipe.

Nutrition