Korean spicy dipping sauce (Ssamjang: 쌈장)

Korean spicy dipping sauce (Ssamjang: 쌈장) is a traditional Korean condiment that is used as a dipping sauce, marinade, or dressing. The sauce is made by combining gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) with other ingredients such as soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and sugar to balance the heat, sweetness, and acidity.

The resulting sauce is spicy, tangy, savory, and flavorful. Korean spicy dipping sauce is commonly served with Korean fried chicken, dumplings, or vegetables.

The sauce is also used as a marinade for grilled or roasted meats and as a dressing for salads or noodle dishes. Korean spicy dipping sauce is widely available in Korean grocery stores and online retailers, and it can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.

Ingredients

The ingredients of Korean spicy dipping sauce can vary depending on the recipe and the brand. However, some of the common ingredients include:Gochujang (Korean red pepper paste): provides a spicy and savory flavor.

Soy sauce: adds salty taste and umami flavor.Rice vinegar: adds acidity to balance the sweetness and heat.Sesame oil: provides a rich and nutty taste.Garlic: adds pungent flavor and aroma.Sugar: balances the heat and acidity with sweetness.

Other spices and seasonings like black pepper and sesame seeds.Some recipes may also call for other ingredients such as ginger, green onions and water to adjust consistency. But the main ingredients for Korean spicy dipping sauce are gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and sugar.

Nutritional Facts

The nutritional facts of Korean spicy dipping sauce can vary depending on the specific recipe and brand. However, in general, Korean spicy dipping sauce is relatively low in calories and fat, but can be high in sodium and sugar depending on the amount of sauce consumed. Here are the rough nutritional values of a 1 tablespoon (about 15 grams) serving:

• Calories: 20
• Fat: 1 gram
• Sodium: 280 milligrams (12% of the daily value)
• Carbohydrates: 4 grams
• Fiber: 0 gramsSugar: 3 grams
• Protein: 1 gram

Korean spicy dipping sauce is high in sodium, primarily because it contains soy sauce, which is a salty ingredient. However, it also contains beneficial compounds such as capsaicin in the gochujang which has been linked to several health benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving digestion. It also contains garlic which is known to have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Although Korean spicy dipping sauce is generally consumed in small amounts as a condiment, people who are watching their sodium and sugar intake should be mindful of how much they are consuming.