Dim sum is already a comfort food classic, but when I pair it with a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy homemade dipping sauce, it becomes something truly special. This sauce is a flavor bomb—salty from soy, tangy from vinegar, sweet from honey, and aromatic with fresh ginger and garlic. Whether I’m entertaining friends or indulging in a solo snack, this sauce brings my dim sum game to the next level.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, yet delivers restaurant-level flavor. With just a few pantry staples, I can whip up a dipping sauce that’s bold, balanced, and totally addictive. It’s also customizable—mild or spicy, herbaceous or simple. And when paired with steaming dim sum, it creates an experience that’s warm, interactive, and satisfying. Whether I’m serving veggie dumplings, shrimp har gow, or tofu buns, this sauce never fails to impress.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
soy sauce
rice vinegar
sesame oil
chili oil
ginger, minced
honey
garlic, minced
green onion or cilantro, chopped
sesame seeds
Directions
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
I start by prepping everything—mincing garlic and ginger, and chopping my herbs. It makes the mixing process seamless and quick.
Step 2: Mix the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, I mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil, minced ginger, honey, and garlic. I stir until the honey blends in completely, creating a glossy, aromatic sauce.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
Right before serving, I toss in chopped green onion or cilantro and sprinkle with sesame seeds. This adds freshness, texture, and beautiful presentation.
Step 4: Steam the Dim Sum
I place frozen dim sum in a lined steamer—no need to thaw. Steamed over boiling water for 8 to 12 minutes, they come out hot and tender, ready for dipping.
Step 5: Time to Dip and Enjoy!
I serve the dim sum hot with the dipping sauce on the side. The interactive dipping makes the whole meal more fun and satisfying.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 4 people as an appetizer or 2 as a light meal. The sauce takes just 5 minutes to make, and dim sum typically steams in 8 to 12 minutes. Altogether, I can have everything ready in under 20 minutes.
Variations
I like to switch things up depending on who I’m serving. Sometimes I add a splash of hoisin sauce or use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness. A bit of fresh lime juice can add a citrusy punch, and for those who love heat, a few red pepper flakes or extra chili oil do the trick. Swapping cilantro for Thai basil or mint brings a fun twist to the herbs on top.
storage/reheating
Storing Leftovers
If I have leftovers, I keep the sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Cooked dim sum goes into a separate airtight container and stays fresh for 2–3 days.
Freezing
Cooked dim sum can be frozen—just layer them in a container with parchment between to prevent sticking. I skip freezing the sauce, though, since it’s so easy to make fresh.
Reheating
I usually reheat dim sum by steaming them again for 5–8 minutes straight from the fridge, or 10–12 minutes from frozen. Microwaving with a damp paper towel works too, but steaming keeps the texture soft and fluffy.
FAQs
Can I make the dipping sauce less spicy?
Yes. I just reduce or omit the chili oil for a milder version that still delivers on flavor. It’s great for kids or anyone avoiding spice.
What kind of dim sum works best for this dipping sauce?
Almost any kind! I’ve had great results with shrimp har gow, veggie gyoza, mushroom dumplings, and tofu buns. The sauce is super versatile.
Can I substitute anything for rice vinegar?
I sometimes use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if I’m out of rice vinegar. Lemon juice also works in a pinch for a citrusy edge.
Is this dipping sauce gluten-free?
It can be! I use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and double check my other ingredients to keep the whole recipe safe for gluten-free diets.
How long can I keep the leftover dipping sauce?
Stored in the fridge, it lasts up to a week. I always give it a good stir before serving again to reawaken the flavors.
Conclusion
Whenever I want to elevate my dim sum experience, this dipping sauce is my go-to. It’s fast, flavorful, and makes every bite shine. Whether I’m serving a crowd or just treating myself, the combination of sweet, savory, spicy, and fresh flavors makes this dish unforgettable. Give it a try and let the dipping begin!
