Potstickers are a beloved Asian dish enjoyed by many, but what truly elevates them to the next level is the sauce. The perfect potsticker sauce strikes a delicate balance of flavors, enhancing the taste of the dumplings without overpowering them. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your own easy potsticker sauce at home, you’re in luck.
Today, we’ll share a simple yet delicious recipe for homemade potsticker sauce that will take your dumpling dipping experience to new heights. Get ready to impress your taste buds and guests alike with this flavorful and versatile sauce that pairs perfectly with any potsticker variation.
What Ingredients Go Into a Classic Potsticker Sauce?
Soy Sauce 1/2 Cup
Soy sauce is the foundation of classic potsticker sauce, providing deep umami, saltiness, and a touch of sweetness. It enhances the overall flavor balance, making dumplings more savory. Opt for regular, low-sodium, or tamari (for a gluten-free alternative) based on preference.
Rice Vinegar 1 Teaspoon
Rice vinegar adds a mild, tangy acidity that balances the saltiness of soy sauce. It enhances the overall depth of flavor, giving the sauce a slightly sweet and refreshing zing. Use unseasoned rice vinegar for a purer, more traditional taste.
Sesame Oil 1 Teaspoon
Sesame oil brings a rich, toasty, and nutty depth to potsticker sauce. Just a few drops enhance the overall flavor, adding warmth and complexity. Use toasted sesame oil for a more intense aroma and always add it last to preserve its fragrance.
Honey 2 Tablespoons
Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness that balances the saltiness and acidity in potsticker sauce. It enhances depth while rounding out sharp flavors. A small amount goes a long way, creating a smooth, well-balanced dipping sauce with a hint of warmth.
Green Onions, Sliced 1 Tablespoon
Green onions add a mild, fresh, and slightly peppery flavor to potsticker sauce. They provide a crisp contrast to the rich, umami base while enhancing aroma and texture. Finely chop them for the best infusion of flavor in the sauce.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes 1 Tsp
Crushed red pepper flakes bring heat and a subtle smokiness to potsticker sauce. They add a warming spice that enhances the overall depth of flavor. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference for a mild tingle or a fiery kick.
Sesame Seeds, For Garnish 1 Tsp
Sesame seeds add a light, nutty flavor and subtle crunch to potsticker sauce. They enhance texture while complementing the richness of sesame oil. Toasted sesame seeds provide a deeper aroma, making the sauce more flavorful and visually appealing.
How to Make Potsticker Sauce?
- In a small bowl, combine the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar
- whisk to combine.
- Add the green onion slices and stir to combine.
- Next, garnish with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes.
Best Store-Bought Sauces For Dumplings
Dumplings are delicious on their own, but the right sauce takes them to the next level. Here are some of the best store-bought sauces you can grab for a perfect pairing.
1. Soy Sauce – A Classic Choice
A simple yet essential dipping sauce, soy sauce adds a rich umami flavor to dumplings. Opt for Kikkoman or Lee Kum Kee for a well-balanced taste.
2. Chili Oil – For a Spicy Kick
Love heat? Lao Gan Ma Chili Crisp or Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp bring spice, crunch, and depth to your dumplings.
3. Ponzu Sauce – A Citrusy Twist
This soy-citrus blend, like Kikkoman Ponzu, adds a tangy brightness that complements dumplings beautifully.
4. Hoisin Sauce – A Sweet & Savory Option
If you prefer something thick and slightly sweet, Lee Kum Kee Hoisin Sauce is a great choice.
5. Gyoza Dipping Sauce – The All-in-One Option
For an easy pick, try Annie Chun’s Gyoza Sauce or Kikkoman’s Gyoza Dipping Sauce—both are perfectly balanced for dumplings.
Ways to Use Potsticker Sauce Beyond Dumplings
Potsticker sauce is a flavorful blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet elements. While it’s perfect for dumplings, its versatility makes it a great addition to many dishes. Here are creative ways to use it beyond dumplings.
1. Stir-Fry Sauce
Potsticker sauce works as an excellent stir-fry base. Just toss it with vegetables, meat, tofu, or noodles for an instant flavor boost. The combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil enhances any stir-fry.
2. Marinade for Meat or Tofu
Use potsticker sauce to marinate chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before grilling or pan-searing for a rich, umami-packed taste.
3. Salad Dressing
Mix potsticker sauce with a little extra sesame oil and honey for a quick and delicious Asian-inspired salad dressing. It pairs well with greens, cucumbers, and shredded carrots.
4. Noodle Seasoning
Drizzle it over cooked ramen, udon, or soba noodles for a quick and flavorful meal. Add some chili oil for an extra kick!
5. Dipping Sauce for Spring Rolls
Spring rolls, egg rolls, or tempura all taste amazing when dipped in potsticker sauce. It’s a balanced blend of salty, tangy, and spicy flavors.
6. Rice Bowl Topping
Pour it over steamed rice with grilled chicken, beef, or tofu for a simple yet tasty rice bowl. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
7. Glaze for Roasted Vegetables
Brush potsticker sauce onto roasted vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, or bell peppers to give them an extra punch of flavor.
This sauce is a kitchen staple that can transform many dishes beyond just dumplings!
Potsticker Sauce
Ingredients
- ½ Cup Soy Sauce
- 1 Teaspoon Rice Vinegar
- 1 Teaspoon Sesame Oil
- 2 Tablespoons Honey
- 1 Tablespoon Green Onions, Sliced
- 1 Tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 Tsp Sesame Seeds, For Garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar
- whisk to combine
- Add the green onion slices and stir to combine
- Next, garnish with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes
Nutrition
Final Words
Improve your potstickers with this simple and tasty sauce recipe. The right amount of sweet, savory, and sour flavors will make your dumplings taste even better. This sauce will impress your taste buds and make your meal more enjoyable, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook. Give it a try and add a tasty twist to your next meal!
FAQs
How to Adjust the Spice Level in Potsticker Sauce?
To make it spicier, add chili oil, sriracha, or crushed red pepper. For milder sauce, dilute with soy sauce, vinegar, or a bit of honey. Balance heat by adding sesame oil or a splash of water. Adjust gradually and taste as you go!
Can Potsticker Sauce Be Made Without Soy Sauce?
Yes! Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor or use tamari for a gluten-free option. Alternatively, mix balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, or miso paste with water for depth. Adjust seasoning with salt and sesame oil for balance.
