Thai Chili Lime Dressing is a zesty and flavorful condiment that combines the heat of chilies with the tanginess of lime, balanced by savory fish sauce and a touch of sweetness. This versatile dressing is perfect for drizzling over salads, marinating meats, or serving as a dipping sauce for seafood and grilled dishes.
Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup (serves 8)
Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, grated or finely minced
- ½ cup fish sauce
- ½ cup fresh lime juice
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 to 4 red Thai chilies, finely minced (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup finely minced cilantro
- ¼ cup finely sliced scallions
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the grated garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add Chilies: Stir in the finely minced Thai chilies, adjusting the quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Incorporate Herbs: Add the minced cilantro and sliced scallions to the mixture, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed, balancing the salty, sour, sweet, and spicy elements to your preference.
- Serve: Use immediately as a dressing for salads, a marinade for meats, or a dipping sauce for seafood and grilled dishes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: ~57 kcal
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 2,840mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Notes:
- Adjusting Spice Level: The heat of this dressing comes from Thai chilies. Adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference. For a milder version, consider using fewer chilies or removing the seeds.
- Balancing Flavors: Achieving the right balance between salty, sour, sweet, and spicy is key to this dressing. Feel free to adjust the quantities of fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and chilies to match your taste.
- Storage: Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before each use, as separation may occur.
- Versatility: This dressing pairs excellently with various salads, especially those featuring fresh vegetables, seafood, or grilled meats. It can also be used as a marinade to infuse dishes with vibrant Thai flavors.
Enjoy crafting and savoring this vibrant Thai Chili Lime Dressing to enhance your culinary creations!