This Chinese Scallion Sauce, a minimalist masterpiece, relies on the pure, bright flavor of scallions. Finely chopped spring onions are gently cooked in a blend of peanut and sesame oils, then seasoned simply with salt to amplify its savory depth. The result is a fragrant, intensely scallion-forward condiment, perfect for adding a punch of umami to any dish.
What ingredients are in Chinese Scallion Sauce?
- Scallions (or Spring Onions as we call them down under)
- Peanut Oil (or any vegetable oil)
- Sesame Oil
- Salt (optional, but lifts this sauce to the next level.
What dishes should you eat Chinese Scallion Sauce with?
Chinese scallion sauce, with its fragrant blend of scallions, peanut and sesame oils, salt, and MSG (optional), is a remarkably versatile condiment. It shines as a drizzle over steamed fish or dumplings, adds a vibrant kick to noodles, and elevates simple stir-fries. Its ability to cut through richness makes it an ideal accompaniment to roasted meats like pork or duck. Notably, it’s a quintessential component of Hainanese chicken rice, where it complements the tender poached chicken and fragrant rice with its sharp, savory notes, providing a crucial element of flavor contrast. Check out my recipe for an easy one-pot rice cooker version of Hainanese Chicken Rice.
Tips for the perfect result!
To maximize the vibrant flavor of this scallion sauce, begin by gently muddling the finely chopped spring onions. This process releases their aromatic oils and pungent juices, setting the stage for a deeply flavorful base. Next, heat peanut oil in a pan and carefully add the muddled scallions, frying them until they soften and release their fragrance, without letting them burn. The warm peanut oil extracts even more of the scallion’s essence. Finally, remove the pan from the heat, stir in a touch of sesame oil for added nuttiness and a pinch of salt (and optionally MSG) to enhance the savory notes. Whilst we haven’t included MSG in this recipe, we highly recommend giving it a try. We wrote a blog post recently about how MSG isn’t as bad as what you’ve been told. This careful process yields a scallion sauce with a complex, layered flavor profile.
Did you give this recipe a try? Comment below about how it turned out or what you ate it with!
Chinese Scallion Sauce
This Chinese Scallion Sauce, a minimalist masterpiece, relies on the pure, bright flavor of scallions. Finely chopped spring onions are gently cooked in a blend of peanut and sesame oils, then seasoned simply with salt to amplify its savory depth. The result is a fragrant, intensely scallion-forward condiment, perfect for adding a punch of umami to any dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Put the scallions (spring onions) into a bowl and use a muddler to mush then until their oils are released. How far you go really depends on taste.
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Place the peanut oil in a small pot and heat over a high heat. Drop a small piece of scallion into the oil. Once it sizzles, the oil is ready. Add the scallions and cook for 30 seconds stirring constantly.
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Remove from the heat and stir in the sesame oil and salt. Pour into a small bowl and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 148kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16.3g26%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.83g1%
- Sugars 0.6g
- Protein 0.5g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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