Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce

 

Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce: A Zesty Condiment for Every Meal

A Perfect Pairing with Hainanese Chicken Rice

    Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce is the quintessential condiment served alongside the beloved Hainanese Chicken Rice. But its versatility extends beyond just chicken rice—this easy-to-make sauce pairs wonderfully with fried or steamed chicken, fish, and meat. With a delightful mix of tangy, spicy, sour, and mildly salty flavours, this sauce is a true taste enhancer that teases and tantalizes your taste buds.

The Secret to a Flavourful Sauce: Fresh Ingredients

    The key to a standout Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce lies in using fresh ingredients. The natural juices from the chillies, garlic, and ginger create a symphony of flavours that make this sauce truly remarkable. Balancing the right amount of salt, sugar, and lime juice is essential, with lime juice providing that necessary tang. If lime isn't available, you can substitute it with calamansi juice, white vinegar, or rice wine vinegar. This sauce is a versatile condiment, perfect as a dipping sauce or an accompaniment to various dishes.

Popular Uses in Malaysia and Singapore

    In Malaysia and Singapore, Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce is a must-have with Hainanese Chicken Rice. A touch of chicken broth is often added to the sauce, enriching its flavour and ensuring it complements the chicken rice perfectly. But don’t limit this zesty sauce to just one dish—it’s equally delicious with steamed chicken, roasted chicken or duck, pandan fried chicken, Thai spring rolls, and Vietnamese fresh spring rolls (Gỏi cuốn). You can also serve it alongside rice, fried rice, or noodles for an extra burst of flavour

 

 

Explore the Full Recipe of Hainanese Chicken Rice, here...

 

Cuisine: Malaysian (Hainanese)
Recipe Type: Condiment, Sauce
Difficulty Level: Easy
Yields: Approximately 1 Cup
Author: SM

Preparation Time: 10–15 Minutes

How to Make Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce

Close-up of Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce

    Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce is a staple in Malaysian (Hainanese) cuisine, known for its vibrant flavours and versatility. This easy recipe requires minimal preparation time, making it a convenient addition to any meal. Whether you're enhancing the taste of Hainanese Chicken Rice or adding a punch of flavour to your favourite dishes, this sauce is a must-try.

 

Ingredients for Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce

Red Chillies: 10 Nos.
Red Bird's Eye Chillies: 5 Nos.
Ginger: 1 piece (2 inches)
Garlic: 5–6 cloves
Limau Kasturi/Calamansi Juice: 4–5 tablespoons
Brown Sugar: To taste
Salt: To taste

 

Method: How to Make Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce

Prepare the Ingredients:   

Mix the Sauce:

• After grinding, blend the mixture with calamansi juice until well combined.
• Add salt and a dash of brown sugar to balance the flavours. Mix thoroughly.

Store the Sauce:

• Transfer the sauce into a clean, dry glass jar.
• Keep it refrigerated to preserve its freshness. When stored properly, the sauce can last up to 3–4 weeks.

Notes and Tips for Perfecting Your Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh red chillies and red bird's eye chillies are used in this recipe for an authentic flavour.
• Adjust Spice Levels: For a milder version, remove the seeds from the chillies and adjust the quantity according to your spice preference.
• Flavour Development: The sauce’s flavours intensify after being refrigerated. Allow it to rest for a day or two, then taste and adjust with additional salt or sugar if necessary.
• Substitutes: If calamansi juice is unavailable, you can use white rice wine vinegar as a substitute.
• For Hainanese Chicken Rice: When preparing this sauce for Hainanese Chicken Rice, consider adding a few teaspoons of chicken broth for an enhanced taste.                                  

Storage Tips:

• Avoid storing the sauce in steel, aluminium, or copper containers, as these materials can react with the acidic elements like salt and lime juice.
• Opt for clean and dry porcelain, glass, or ceramic jars to store the sauce.
• Always use a clean, dry spoon—preferably a wooden one—when scooping out the sauce to prevent contamination.
• Proper storage in the refrigerator ensures the sauce remains fresh for up to 3–4 weeks.

Authentic Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce Recipe: Perfect Condiment for Hainanese Chicken Rice & More

    Whether you’re serving it with a traditional dish or adding a kick to your favourite meals, Ginger Garlic Chilli Sauce is a versatile and flavourful addition to your kitchen repertoire. With its unique blend of flavours, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your home.