Cold Ginger Chicken Sauce

Looking to add a burst of flavor to your next chicken dish? Cold ginger chicken sauce can be a great choice. One of the main ingredients, ginger, gives the sauce a refreshing characteristic. Also packed with savory umami flavors, the sauce offers a delightful contrast. 

Serve it over cold chicken or a warm dish; this ginger-infused sauce is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So if you’re thinking of preparing this delicious sauce right in your kitchen, then you’re in the right place. The recipe is simple, made with common ingredients.  

So let’s get started. 

What Is Cold Ginger Chicken Sauce?

Cold ginger chicken sauce is a flavorful, chilled condiment. It is made with fresh ginger, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a few other key ingredients. The sauce is typically served cold. This makes it an ideal topping for cold chicken dishes. Chinese-style poached chicken dishes can be given as prime examples. 

The combination of ginger’s warmth and the savory soy sauce creates a delicious balance of flavors. The sauce is popular in many Asian cuisines, particularly Chinese. It adds a refreshing zing to any chicken dish. 

Ingredients You’ll Need 

To make a flavorful Cold Ginger Chicken Sauce, gather these simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Fresh Ginger – 2 Tablespoons (Finely Grated)

Ginger is the heart of this sauce. It brings warmth, zest, and a bold kick. It’s fresh, slightly spicy flavor cuts through the richness of the chicken. Finely grating it releases the natural juices and maximizes its flavor impact.

Soy Sauce – 3 Tablespoons

Soy sauce provides the salty umami base that grounds the entire sauce. It deepens the flavor and complements the brightness of the ginger and vinegar.

Sesame Oil – 1 Tablespoon

Adds an earthy, toasted aroma that gives the sauce its signature depth. It enhances the mouthfeel and makes the sauce more fragrant. 

Garlic – 2 Cloves (Minced)

Brings a bold, savory punch to the scene. Its rich aroma and depth help round out the sauce’s flavor profile. Fresh minced garlic gives the best results. 

Sugar – 1 Teaspoon

A small amount of sugar helps tame the saltiness and spice. It smooths out the acidity and sharpness. 

Rice Vinegar – 1 Tablespoon

Rice vinegar adds a mild tang that lifts the sauce. It brightens the flavor and keeps the sauce from feeling too heavy. 

Chili Flakes (Optional) – A Pinch

Chili flakes are great for those who enjoy a bit of heat. They add a spicy. Feel free to adjust or skip based on your spice tolerance.

Water – 2 Tablespoons

Water helps thin the sauce to just the right pourable texture. It ensures the sauce coats the chicken evenly.

Green Onions – 1 Stalk (Sliced)

Green onions add a crisp, oniony brightness. They provide color contrast and a pop of flavor to each bite. 

Cold Ginger Chicken Sauce Easy Preparation Guide

Step 1: Grate the Ginger

Peel and grate fresh ginger to get about 2 tablespoons. The fresh ginger will give the sauce its distinctive zingy flavor. So, make sure to grate it finely for a smooth consistency.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. Ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 3: Add Water and Chili Flakes (Optional)

Add 2 tablespoons of water to the mixture to thin the sauce. This will help you achieve the right consistency. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes at this stage. Stir everything together.

Step 4: Let It Sit and Chill

Let the sauce sit for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld. Then, place the sauce in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps enhance the flavors. Also gives the sauce a refreshing, cold taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once chilled, remove the sauce from the refrigerator. Give it a quick stir. Drizzle the cold ginger sauce over cold poached chicken. Also, use it as a dipping sauce for grilled or roasted chicken. Garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your cold ginger chicken sauce is ready, here are some great ways to use it:

Over Poached or Steamed Chicken

The most traditional way to serve cold ginger chicken sauce is over poached or steamed chicken. The refreshing punch of the sauce makes the tender chicken extra delicious. It adds a savory, tangy kick to each bite.

As a Dipping Sauce

Serve the cold ginger chicken sauce as a dipping sauce for grilled or roasted chicken. Perfect for chicken skewers or crispy chicken wings.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

For a lighter option, drizzle the sauce over stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or bok choy. The sauce adds a nice balance of flavors and elevates the dish.

With Rice or Noodles

Use the sauce as a dressing for rice or noodles. Works great with both hot and cold noodle dishes. It gives them an extra burst of flavor.

In Salads

Drizzle the sauce over a simple chicken salad or a cold noodle salad. The ginger flavor adds a refreshing twist to the greens and protein.

Final Thoughts

Cold ginger chicken sauce is a versatile and refreshing condiment. It is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your chicken dishes. The Most Comforting thing is that you can prepare this using simple ingredients with very little effort. On top of that, mastering this recipe will reduce your dependency on store-bought alternatives. Use it to dress poached chicken, as a dip for grilled meats, or drizzle over noodles and rice to make a memorable experience.

FAQs

What Goes With Cold Ginger Chicken?

Cold ginger chicken pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. It’s perfect for light, flavorful dishes.

How to Store Ginger Scallion Sauce?

Store ginger scallion sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Is Cold Ginger Sauce Spicy?

Cold ginger sauce has a mild to moderate spiciness. It is mainly from the ginger and optional chilli flakes. It’s not overly hot, but it adds a zesty kick.