Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce

Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce is a delicious and bold condiment that adds a punch to any dish. I first discovered this sauce while experimenting with Japanese flavors in my kitchen. I was craving something with depth, heat, and a little sweetness. When I mixed miso with chili paste, soy sauce, and a hint of honey, the result was a perfect balance. The Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce quickly became a favorite in my home, perfect for dipping vegetables, dumplings, or even drizzling over grilled meats.

A Burst of Heat and Umami

The beauty of Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce lies in its perfect balance of flavors. The miso brings a savory, umami base that is enhanced by the heat from the chili paste. A dash of soy sauce gives it an extra layer of saltiness, while a bit of honey softens the sharpness and adds a touch of sweetness. This combination creates a sauce that’s both bold and balanced, perfect for adding excitement to simple dishes.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Making Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce is incredibly easy with just a few ingredients you probably already have at home. You’ll need white or yellow miso paste, chili paste or sriracha, soy sauce, honey, and a little water to thin it out. Stirring them together creates a smooth and rich dipping sauce that will elevate any meal. You can even adjust the level of spice to suit your taste by adding more or less chili paste.

A Versatile Favorite

Once you’ve made Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce, you’ll find yourself using it on everything. It’s perfect for dipping crispy tofu, fresh spring rolls, or even as a topping for steamed vegetables. The possibilities are endless! Whether you serve it at a dinner party or keep it in your fridge for quick snacks, this sauce will always deliver that extra kick of flavor that everyone loves.

Chef’s Notes- Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce

• Miso Paste: Miso paste comes in different colors (white, yellow, red). For a milder flavor, opt for white miso. If you want a stronger, saltier taste, use red miso paste.
• Gochujang Heat Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang to your spice preference. If you like a milder sauce, start with 1 teaspoon and work your way up.
• Sweetness Balance: Honey adds a natural sweetness, but you can adjust the sweetness by adding a little more or using maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.
• Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil is essential for the signature nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use regular sesame oil, but the taste will be less rich.
• Flavor Enhancement: Let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The sauce will taste even better after a few hours in the refrigerator.
• Serving Suggestions: For an authentic experience, serve this dipping sauce with grilled meats (like bulgogi or galbi), fresh lettuce wraps, or alongside steamed rice. It’s also great as a condiment for fried chicken or roasted vegetables.
• Storage: This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Always stir before using as the ingredients may separate over time.
• Customization Tip: For extra heat, you can add finely chopped fresh chili peppers or chili flakes to increase spiciness. For a tangier twist, a small splash of rice vinegar can be added to brighten the flavor.

Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce

Recipe by Kimmy

Course: Side DishCuisine: KoreanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

0

minutes

Calories

80

kcal

Total time

10

minutes

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Korea with our homemade Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce! This versatile condiment, inspired by traditional Ssamjang, combines the rich umami of miso paste with a fiery kick of hot pepper. Perfect for grilled meats, fresh lettuce wraps, or as a zesty addition to any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and customizable to suit your taste. Elevate your culinary creations and impress your guests with this delectable, easy-to-make dipping sauce that brings authentic Korean flavors right to your table!

Ingredients

• Sauces Condiments

• 1/4 cup white miso paste

• 1 tablespoon fiery gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste)

• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

• Fresh Produce

• 1 stalk green onion, finely chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup finely diced onion

• Sweeteners Seeds

• 2 teaspoons natural honey

• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Miso Paste: Tamari or soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

• Gochujang: Sriracha or sambal oelek as a substitute for a different heat profile.

• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan alternative.

• Sesame Oil: Olive oil for a different flavor though it changes the traditional taste.

• Green Onion: Leeks or shallots in place of green onions.

Directions

• Mixing Base – In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the white miso paste and gochujang thoroughly using a spoon. Ensure the pastes are well integrated to form a smooth base.
• Adding Fresh Ingredients – Incorporate the finely chopped green onion, minced garlic, and diced onion into the mixture. Stir gently to distribute evenly, enhancing the sauce’s texture and flavor depth. (Approx. 2 minutes)
• Sweetening Final Touches – Add the natural honey and toasted sesame seeds to the bowl. Pour in the toasted sesame oil, then mix all ingredients until the sauce reaches a harmonious balance of sweetness, spiciness, and umami. (Approx. 1 minute)
• Serving Suggestions – Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl. Pair it with steamed rice, fresh lettuce leaves, or your favorite grilled meats for an authentic Korean dining experience. Optional: Garnish with additional sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

Equipment

• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons
• spoon

Notes

• For a deeper umami flavor, let the sauce sit for a few hours in the refrigerator before serving. Serve alongside grilled beef, pork belly, or as a spread for lettuce wraps with rice. Enhance the sauce by adding finely chopped chili flakes for extra heat or a splash of rice vinegar for tanginess. Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Stir well before each use as ingredients may separate over time. Experiment with adding freshly grated ginger for an additional layer of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 80kcal
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Potassium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin A: 200IU
• Vitamin C: 2mg
• Calcium: 30mg
• Iron: 1mg

FAQ- Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce

Can I use a different type of miso paste for this recipe?

Yes! White miso paste is the most common and mildest, but you can also use yellow or red miso for a stronger, saltier flavor. The consistency might vary slightly depending on the type.

Can I make this sauce spicier?

Absolutely! To increase the heat, add more gochujang or finely chopped fresh chili peppers. You can also sprinkle in some red chili flakes to kick up the spice level.

Is there a vegan substitute for honey?

Yes! You can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or any other plant-based sweetener instead of honey to keep this recipe fully vegan.

How long can I store the Miso Spicy Dipping Sauce?

The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days. Be sure to stir it well before each use, as the ingredients may separate over time.

What can I serve this dipping sauce with?

This sauce is perfect for dipping grilled meats (like pork or beef), pairing with fresh lettuce wraps, or enjoying with steamed rice. It also makes a great topping for fried chicken, roasted vegetables, or even as a spread for sandwiches.