Savory Vietnamese Vegetable Dipping Sauce Mam Kho Quet Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to create a magical sauce that transforms any dish into a culinary masterpiece, stick with me as we dive into the savory depths of a concoction that’s equal parts simplicity and flavor.

The Vietnamese sauce, Mam Kho Quet, has rich, umami flavors that I adore. In my version, I combine fish sauce, oyster sauce, and soy sauce to create a deeply savory base that, when mixed with sugar, black pepper, and red chili, really comes alive.

I could drink it straight. Or, as I have here, pour it over a big bowl of barely cooked and prepped veggies.

With loads of flavor and nutritional balance comprising this vibrant dish, it’s something to savor.

Savory Vietnamese Vegetable Dipping Sauce Mam Kho Quet Recipe Ingredients

• Fish Sauce: A savory, umami bomb, rich in protein, enhances the sauce’s depth.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the salty and umami flavors.
• Garlic: Pungent and aromatic, it adds depth and enhances umami.
• Shallots: Sweet and mild, they contribute a delicate onion flavor.
• Dried Shrimp: Rich in protein, adds a savory complexity and texture.
• Red Chili: For heat and spice, adds a vibrant kick, enhancing flavor.

Savory Vietnamese Vegetable Dipping Sauce Mam Kho Quet Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 shallots, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
• 100 ml water
• 1 tablespoon dried shrimp, soaked and chopped
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)

How to Make this Savory Vietnamese Vegetable Dipping Sauce Mam Kho Quet Recipe

1. In a tiny dish, combine the fish sauce, oyster sauce, and soy sauce. Put it away for later.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil. Minced garlic and sliced shallots go in next, to sauté until they are golden brown and fragrant.

3. Add to the skillet the chopped dried shrimp and keep simmering for 2 more minutes.

4. Transfer the sauce combination from the bowl to the skillet and stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.

5. Add the sugar, black pepper, and sliced red chili (if using) to the skillet. Stir to dissolve the sugar and blend the flavors.

6. Add 100 ml of water to the skillet and stir. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

7. For a saucier result, keep adding the mixture to the cornstarch until you’re satisfied with it. Then add back to the sauce until it reaches a depth of flavor you prefer.

8. Sample the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding a little more sugar or fish sauce.

9. Keep the sauce at a low simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes so that the flavors can come together.

10. Switch off the heat and move the sauce into a serving bowl. Offer as a dipping sauce for vegetables or other accompanying items that begs for a warm sauce.

Savory Vietnamese Vegetable Dipping Sauce Mam Kho Quet Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Small mixing bowl
2. Measuring spoons
3. Skillet
4. Cooking spoon or spatula
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Small dish (for cornstarch mixture)
8. Bowl (for serving sauce)

FAQ

• Can I make this dipping sauce vegetarian?
  While the authentic flavor includes fish sauce and dried shrimp, you can substitute with soy sauce or a vegetarian fish sauce alternative and omit the dried shrimp to make it vegetarian.
• How long can I store Mam Kho Quet?
  Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently before serving.
• What vegetables pair well with this sauce?
  Fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrot, and lettuce, or steamed vegetables such as broccoli and green beans complement the dipping sauce beautifully.
• Can I adjust the spiciness of Mam Kho Quet?
  Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding or omitting the red chili. For extra spice, include chili flakes or more fresh chilies.
• Is it necessary to use cornstarch?
  The cornstarch is optional and used to thicken the sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can omit it entirely.
• What is a suitable substitute for oyster sauce?
  Soy sauce or a mushroom-based sauce can be a good substitute for those needing a non-seafood alternative.
• How should the dried shrimp be prepared?
  Soak the dried shrimp in warm water for about 10 minutes, then finely chop before adding to the sauce.

Savory Vietnamese Vegetable Dipping Sauce Mam Kho Quet Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Fish sauce: Substitute with soy sauce combined with a little bit of lime juice for a similar umami flavor.
Oyster sauce: For a vegetarian alternative, use hoisin sauce or mushroom sauce.
Soy sauce: You can use tamari as a gluten-free substitute.
Sugar. Swap it for honey or palm sugar, and suddenly your profile of sweetness is different.
If you want no heat, leave it out entirely. Otherwise, use red pepper flakes.

Pro Tips

1. Balance the Sweetness and Saltiness: As you mix the sauces and sugar in step 1, taste the mixture. If it leans too salty, add a bit more sugar. Conversely, if it’s too sweet, increase the fish sauce or soy sauce slightly. This helps achieve a harmonious taste right from the start.