Filipino Vinegar Dipping Sauce

The Filipino vinegar dipping sauce, also known as sawsawan,  has become a staple in Filipino cuisine. The tang, heat, and burst of flavor add glamour to grilled meats, fried foods, and fresh veggies. It creates a next-level experience on special occasions with a brightened flavor. 

The great thing about the sauce is that it’s easy and simple to make. With just some common ingredients, you can whip this zesty, savory sauce in minutes. So, follow along as we walk you through this delicious dipping sauce recipe. 

What is Filipino Vinegar Dipping Sauce?

It is a condiment primarily made from vinegar and soy sauce. Also, has a hint of sugar, garlic, and chilli. It is usually used as a dipping sauce for fried, grilled meat or fish. It is also used in barbecues to brighten up the flavors. 

The sauce has the perfect balance of tanginess from vinegar, saltiness from soy sauce, and heat from chilli peppers. The fun part is that you can adjust the flavor to suit your preference. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Vinegar- ½ cup

Try to use Filipino vinegar or cane vinegar for best results. They have the slightly tangy characteristics that you need for this recipe. Use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives. 

• Soy Sauce- 2 tablespoons

It brightens up the flavors. Adds saltiness and umami punch to balance the vinegar. For best results, use the Filipino soy sauce. It is slightly sweeter and darker in appearance. If not available, use the common soy sauce. 

• Garlic- 2 cloves

Use garlic to add depth. It also adds extra fragrance to the sauce. 

• Chili Peppers

Use 1-2 small red or green chillies. This brings heat to the sauce. Also, it gives a burst of flavor when put in the mouth. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. Also, deseed the chilies for a milder version. 

• Sugar (Optional)- ½ teaspoon

Add a pinch of sugar to balance off the sharp tanginess of the vinegar and soy sauce. Avoid sugar if you like the tangy punch. 

• Salt- ¼ teaspoon

Salt enhances the flavor and balances off the sharpness of the vinegar. 

• Onion (optional)- ¼ of a small onion 

Add onions as an optional layer of flavor. It adds a nice crunch and sweetness to the sauce. 

How to Make Filipino Vinegar Dipping Sauce (5 Easy Steps)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Finely mince the garlic and slice the chillies. If you’re using onions, finely slice them and set all the ingredients aside. 

Step 2: Combine Vinegar and Soy Sauce

Combine them both in a bowl. Gently stir to mix them. This works as the base for the dipping sauce. 

Step 3: Add Garlic, Chili, and Onion (optional)

Now add all the garlic, chillies, and onions to the vinegar-soy bowl. Stir them well to combine. 

Step 4: Add Sugar and Salt

Add sugar if you want the tanginess of vinegar to balance off. Stir well to dissolve. Avoid adding sugar if you like the tangy punch of the vinegar. Now add salt to enhance the flavors. Adjust the quantity based on your taste buds.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Let the sauce sit for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If possible, let the sauce sit in the refrigerator for an hour. 

So there you go! The perfect Filipino vinegar dipping sauce is ready to serve. 

Serving Suggestions

Now it’s time to look at some serving suggestions to let you explore more with the sauce. 

Grilled or Fried Meats

This sauce can be ideal when eaten with grilled or fried meats. Also, use it as a pre-grill dressing. The tangy kick gives a refreshing experience, cutting through the richness of the meat. 

Fried Fish

Use it as a dipping sauce with fried fish like bangus, tilapia, or any other deep-fried fish. The vinegar’s acidity balances off with the high protein richness of the fish. 

Fried Tofu and Vegetables

The sauce goes great with crispy tofu, roasted veggies, or crispy kangkong (fried water spinach). The freshness of the vinegar brightens the dish. 

Suman 

Try Filipino vinegar dipping sauce with sweet Suman (sticky rice cakes). It brings a beautiful balance between sweet and sour flavors. 

Adobo

Pair the sauce with adobo (a Filipino braised meat dish) when served with rice. The sauce brightens up the flavor.

Nutrition & Dietary Notes

• Vegan & gluten-free: You can use the vegan and gluten-free version of the sauce. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in that case. 
• Low-Calorie: The vinegar, soy sauce, and spices are all low-calorie ingredients. It can be ideal for those who have their calorie intake in check. 
• Sugar-free option: If you are on a low-sugar or keto diet, you can skip the sugar.

Conclusion

The readily available ingredients and the tangy twist make this Filipino vinegar dipping sauce an ideal choice in Filipino cuisine. Whip the ingredients, and within minutes, you have the sauce ready. The cool thing about homemade ones is that you get a more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought. Additionally, you can avoid the added preservatives and coloring that are often found in commercial sauces.

FAQs

What is Filipino Sawsawan Made of?

It is typically made from vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, chili peppers. Sugar and onions are also used based on preference. The tangy, savory flavor complements grilled meats and fried dishes. 

How to Make Filipino Vinegar Dipping Sauce at Home?

Gather the ingredients. Mix vinegar and soy sauce in a bowl. Add minced garlic, sliced chili peppers, and onions (optional). Season with sugar and salt to taste. Let the sauce rest for 10 minutes to meld the flavors. 

What Dishes Pair Best With Filipino Vinegar Sauce?

The sauce pairs perfectly with grilled meat and fish. Also goes great with tofu, crispy vegetables, and rice dishes.