These Are 6 Top Asian Style Dipping Sauces To Try – Here’s Why

The best Asian-style dipping sauces to try include Classic Soy Dipping Sauce, Japanese Ponzu, Thai Sweet Chili Dip, Korean Gochujang Relish, Vietnamese Nước Chấm, and Peanut Satay Sauce.

Classic Soy Dipping Sauce

This simple soy-based condiment brings rich umami and salty depth to dumplings and spring rolls.

Flavor Profile

Soy sauce delivers a balance of savory and briny notes that enhances mild ingredients.

• Deep umami richness
• Moderate saltiness
• Subtle sweetness from mirin or sugar

How to Prepare

A quick mix of pantry staples yields an all-purpose dip in under five minutes.

• 3 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• Pinch of sugar or mirin
• Optional: sliced scallions, chili flakes

Read our guide to soy sauce varieties for more ways to use this versatile seasoning.

Japanese Ponzu Citrus Sauce

Ponzu combines soy sauce with yuzu or lemon for a tangy dressing that perks up grilled meats and sashimi.

Flavor Profile

Citrus brightness cuts through fatty proteins and adds a refreshing twist to seafood.

• Sharp citrus tang (yuzu, lemon, or sudachi)
• Underlying salty note from soy
• Lightly sweet finish

Ingredients and Steps

Blend zesty juice with aromatics to create a lively dipping condiment.

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp yuzu juice (or fresh lemon juice)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp bonito flakes (steeped then strained)
• Splash of mirin

Thai Sweet Chili Dip

This glaze-like sauce pairs perfectly with fried spring rolls, grilled chicken satay, or vegetable tempura.

Flavor Profile

Sticky sweetness balances mild chili heat for a plangent, finger-licking finish.

• Jammy sugar syrup
• Gentle chili warmth
• Light vinegar tang

DIY Method

Simmer chilies and garlic in a simple syrup for a homemade relish.

• ½ cup rice vinegar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2–3 red chilies, chopped
• 1 tsp cornstarch slurry to thicken

Korean Gochujang Relish

This fermented chili-bean paste sauce carries a complex kick that lifts grilled meats and raw veggies.

Flavor Profile

Sweet, spicy, and earthy tones emerge from the aged chili and soybean blend.

• Pungent fermented heat
• Slight sweetness
• Rich, savory undertones

Recipe

Mix gochujang with liquids and aromatics for an instant dipping accompaniment.

• 2 tbsp gochujang paste
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp honey or sugar
• Optional: minced garlic, sliced scallions

Vietnamese Nước Chấm

A classic table condiment, nước chấm brightens grilled seafood, vermicelli bowls, and fresh rolls.

Flavor Profile

Vinegary sweetness and fish sauce salt create a harmonious, balanced dip.

• Crisp rice vinegar tang
• Umami saltiness from fish sauce
• Touch of caramelized sugar

Quick Assembly

Combine five ingredients for a quintessential Vietnamese sauce.

• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tbsp water
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Peanut Satay Sauce

This creamy dip provides nutty warmth that complements skewered meats and raw vegetables.

Flavor Profile

Roasted peanuts and coconut milk form a luscious, mildly spiced dressing.

• Rich ground-nut creaminess
• Subtle coconut sweetness
• Gentle chili undertones

Simple Recipe

Whisk peanut butter with coconut and aromatics for a luxurious dip.

• ¼ cup smooth peanut butter
• 2 tbsp coconut milk
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp lime juice
• Pinch of red chili flakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common queries about Asian dipping sauces.

What dipping sauce pairs best with gyoza?

Classic Soy Dipping Sauce works exceptionally well with gyoza, thanks to its savory, salty backbone and hint of sesame oil.

Can I make these sauces ahead of time?

Most of these condiments improve after a few hours in the fridge. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

How can I adjust the heat level?

Reduce or omit fresh chilies and chili flakes for milder dips. Increase chili paste or add sliced chilies to amplify spice.

Are there vegan options?

Swap fish sauce in Nước Chấm for a vegan alternative made from soy sauce and seaweed extract. All other sauces here are plant-based.