Asian cuisine is famous for its bold flavours, and much of this magic comes from its diverse range of sauces. These sauces play an essential role in adding depth and richness to dishes, making them stand out worldwide. Whether you're preparing a stir-fry, marinade, or dipping sauce, understanding these staples can elevate your cooking experience. Let’s explore some popular Asian sauces, their uses, and tips on sourcing the best kitchen options.

1. Soy Sauce: A Timeless Essential

What is Soy Sauce?

Soy sauce is a dark, salty liquid made by fermenting soybeans, wheat, and salt. It’s one of the oldest and most versatile sauces in Asian cooking, with origins dating back thousands of years in China.

Types of Soy Sauce

1. Light Soy Sauce
   • Used for seasoning and enhancing flavours without adding too much colour.
   • Ideal for stir-fries, soups, and marinades.
2. Dark Soy Sauce
   • Thicker and sweeter than light soy sauce.
   • Perfect for adding rich colour to dishes like braised meats and fried rice.
3. Tamari
   • A gluten-free alternative to traditional soy sauce.
   • Favoured in Japanese cooking, especially for sushi and sashimi.

How to Use Soy Sauce

• Add it to marinades for meats and tofu.
• Use as a base for stir-fry sauces.
• Mix with vinegar and sesame oil for a simple dipping sauce.

2. Fish Sauce: A Taste of the Sea

What is Fish Sauce?

Fish sauce is a pungent liquid made from fermented fish, typically anchovies. It’s a cornerstone of Southeast Asian cooking, known for its salty and umami-rich profile.

Common Uses

• Dipping Sauces: Combine with lime juice, garlic, and chilli for a zesty dip.
• Soups and Curries: Adds depth to broths and coconut-based curries.
• Stir-fries: A splash can bring out the best in vegetable or noodle dishes.

Pro Tip for Using Fish Sauce

Start with small amounts due to its strong aroma and taste, then adjust as needed.

3. Oyster Sauce: A Sweet and Savoury Delight

What is Oyster Sauce?

Oyster sauce is a thick, dark sauce made from oyster extracts, sugar, and salt. It has a sweet, salty, and slightly smoky flavour, making it a favourite in Cantonese cooking.

Best Ways to Use Oyster Sauce

• Toss it with stir-fried vegetables for a glossy finish.
• Add it to marinades for meats like chicken or pork.
• Use it as a seasoning for noodle dishes.

4. Hoisin Sauce: The Sweet and Spiced Wonder

What is Hoisin Sauce?

Hoisin sauce is a thick, fragrant sauce made from fermented soybeans, garlic, vinegar, and sweeteners. Often referred to as a Chinese barbecue sauce, it combines sweet, salty, and tangy flavours.

Top Uses for Hoisin Sauce

• Spread on pancakes for Peking duck.
• Mix with sesame oil for a quick dipping sauce.
• Use in stir-fry sauces or as a glaze for roasted meats.

5. Sriracha: The Spicy Star

What is Sriracha?

Originating from Thailand, Sriracha is a hot chilli sauce made from red chillies, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and salt. It’s known for its bright red colour and balanced heat.

How to Enjoy Sriracha

• Drizzle over noodles, rice bowls, or eggs.
• Mix with mayonnaise for a creamy dip or spread.
• Use as a condiment for spring rolls or dumplings.

For authentic Sriracha, check out Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce (Plastic) from JK Foods.

6. Teriyaki Sauce: The Japanese Favourite

What is Teriyaki Sauce?

Teriyaki sauce is a sweet and savoury blend of soy sauce, mirin (rice wine), sugar, and sometimes ginger and garlic. It’s a staple in Japanese cuisine, known for its glossy texture.

Popular Uses

• Brush over grilled fish, chicken, or beef.
• Toss with vegetables or noodles for a quick meal.
• Use as a base for basting skewers or in stir-fries.

7. Sweet Chilli Sauce: A Perfect Balance

What is Sweet Chilli Sauce?

Sweet chilli sauce combines chillies, sugar, vinegar, and garlic for a mildly spicy, sweet flavour. It’s popular in Thai cuisine but widely used across Asia.

Best Ways to Enjoy

• As a dipping sauce for spring rolls or fried snacks.
• Glaze for chicken wings or grilled meats.
• Mix into dressings for salads or noodles.

8. Black Bean Sauce: A Fermented Favourite

What is Black Bean Sauce?

Made from fermented black soybeans, garlic, and spices, this savoury sauce has a rich umami flavour. It’s commonly used in Chinese cooking.

How to Use Black Bean Sauce

• Stir-fry with beef or pork for a hearty dish.
• Use as a base for steamed fish.
• Mix with noodles or rice for bold flavours.

9. Ponzu Sauce: The Citrus Infusion

What is Ponzu Sauce?

Ponzu is a Japanese citrus-based sauce made from soy sauce, yuzu or lemon juice, and mirin. It’s light, tangy, and slightly sweet.

Popular Uses

• Dip for sashimi or dumplings.
• Drizzle over grilled fish or tofu.
• Mix into salad dressings for a refreshing twist.

10. Gochujang: The Korean Classic

What is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean chilli paste made from red chilli powder, glutinous rice, soybeans, and salt. It’s thick, spicy, and slightly sweet.

How to Use Gochujang

• Add to soups and stews like kimchi jjigae.
• Mix into sauces for bibimbap or Korean fried chicken.
• Use as a marinade for meats like bulgogi or pork belly.

Tips for Sourcing Asian Sauces

Finding authentic Asian sauces can make a big difference in your cooking. Here’s how to source the best options:

1. Local Asian Supermarkets
   • These stores often stock a wide range of authentic sauces at reasonable prices.
   • Look for the best quality brands from the sauce’s country of origin.
2. Online Retailers
   • Websites like JK Foods offer an extensive selection of Asian sauces and ingredients.
   • Visit their sauces category for a diverse range of authentic options.
   • With over 45 years of experience, JK Foods UK is a trusted supplier of authentic Oriental products. Their range of over 1,600 items includes high-quality sauces, spices, and condiments sourced directly from the Far East.
   • Whether you’re a restaurant owner or a home chef, JK Foods is an excellent choice for stocking your pantry with authentic Asian flavours.
3. Specialty Shops
   • Some gourmet or health food stores carry premium sauces, including gluten-free or organic varieties.
4. Label Reading
   • Always read the label to ensure the product contains authentic ingredients without excessive preservatives.

Conclusion

Asian sauces are the heart of many dishes, offering a world of flavours to explore. From the salty kick of soy sauce to the spicy warmth of gochujang, each sauce has its unique character. Understanding their uses and sourcing high-quality options can transform your cooking and bring authentic Asian flavours to your table.

For the best selection of Asian sauces and ingredients, JK Foods stands out as a reliable wholesaler in the UK. Experiment with these sauces, and let your taste buds guide you to discover your favourites. Happy cooking