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XO Sauce Recipe: How to make XO Sauce?

ByFood & Recipes Channel

XO Sauce is a luxurious and umami-packed condiment that originated in Hong Kong and has become a staple in Cantonese cuisine. Known for its rich combination of dried seafood, cured ham, aromatics, and spices, this sauce enhances the flavor of any dish it touches. With deep, savory, and slightly spicy notes, XO Sauce is perfect for stir-fries, noodles, dumplings, or even as a dipping sauce. This homemade version retains the authentic taste while allowing you to customize it to your liking. Best of all, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 50g dried shrimp
  • 50g dried scallops
  • 100g Chinese Jinhua ham (or prosciutto), finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon dried chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)

Instructions:

Step 1: Rehydrate the Dried Ingredients

  1. In a bowl, soak the dried shrimp and dried scallops in warm water for 10 minutes until they soften.
  2. Once softened, drain and finely chop or shred them into small pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic, shallots, and red chilies. Sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Proteins

  1. Add the finely chopped Jinhua ham (or prosciutto) to the pan. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until it releases its aroma.
  2. Add the chopped dried shrimp and scallops, and continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until everything is golden and crispy.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Liquids

  1. Stir in the dried chili flakes, sugar, salt, and white pepper.
  2. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Shaoxing wine.
  3. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Finish with Sesame Oil

  1. Turn off the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil for added aroma and depth.
  2. Let the sauce cool before transferring it into an airtight jar.

Step 6: Storing the XO Sauce

  1. Store the sauce in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will deepen over time!

Serving Suggestions:

XO Sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it:

  • Stir-Fried Dishes: Add a spoonful to your favorite stir-fried vegetables, meat, or tofu.
  • Noodles and Rice: Mix into fried rice or toss with noodles for an umami boost.
  • Dim Sum Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside dumplings, spring rolls, or even steamed buns.
  • Seafood Enhancement: Drizzle over grilled shrimp or fish for extra depth of flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon Serving):

  • Calories: 80 kcal
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fats: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fiber: 0.5g

FAQs:

1. What makes XO Sauce so special?

XO Sauce is unique due to its combination of dried seafood and cured meats, giving it an intense umami flavor that enhances a wide variety of dishes.

2. Can I make a vegetarian version of XO Sauce?

Yes! Replace the dried seafood and ham with shiitake mushrooms and fermented black beans for a rich, umami-packed vegetarian alternative.

3. How long does homemade XO Sauce last?

Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, XO Sauce can last up to two weeks. For longer shelf life, freeze portions in small jars.

4. Is XO Sauce spicy?

XO Sauce has a mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies according to your preference.

5. What dishes pair best with XO Sauce?

XO Sauce pairs wonderfully with stir-fried vegetables, noodles, rice, seafood, and dim sum. It’s a great way to add a gourmet touch to home-cooked meals!

Not advisable for people with:

  • Shellfish allergies due to the dried shrimp and scallops.
  • High blood pressure or sodium-sensitive diets due to the salt content.

This guide provides all you need to create an authentic and flavorful XO Sauce at home. Enjoy making and using this umami-packed condiment to elevate your dishes!

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