Chinese-style Garlic Sauce

Ingredients

In this Chinese adaptation, the traditional Greek Skordalia is transformed into a spicy and aromatic garlic sauce by incorporating Chinese ingredients such as ginger, soy sauce, and chili oil. The flavors are adjusted to suit the Chinese religious cuisines, making it a perfect accompaniment for various dishes in this cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Skordalia, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) garlic cloves, minced 1 cup (240ml) garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) ginger, grated 2 tablespoons (30ml) ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar 2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) chili oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) chili oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon sugar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, vegetable oil, salt, and sugar.
2. 2.
   Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. 3.
   Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.
4. 4.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. 5.
   Transfer the Chinese-style Garlic Sauce to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve as a dip, spread, or dressing with your favorite Chinese religious cuisine dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Garlic — Make sure to mince the garlic cloves finely to achieve a smooth texture in the sauce.
• Ginger — Grate the ginger using a fine grater to extract maximum flavor.
• Chili oil — Adjust the amount of chili oil according to your preferred level of spiciness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a milder version, reduce the amount of garlic and chili oil.
• Add a splash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
• Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Use this sauce as a marinade for tofu or vegetables before grilling or stir-frying.
• Customize the sauce by adding other Chinese spices such as Szechuan peppercorns or star anise.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-style Garlic Sauce alongside steamed vegetables, dumplings, or noodles. It can also be used as a spread for sandwiches or as a dressing for salads.

Presentation advice

Transfer the sauce to a small bowl or ramekin and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.