Eesha Kulkarni

Are you always on the hunt for a spicy side dish to jazz up your rice? Or maybe you’re the type who’s meal is never complete without a healthy helping of Sriracha? Well, get ready, because we’ve got something exciting for you! Introducing the chilli oil-inspired dip aka the ‘wet wet sauce,’ the latest viral recipe that’s set to shake up your taste buds and add a whole new dimension to your meals.

Whether you’re a spice lover or just someone who enjoys a little kick in their dishes, the ‘wet wet sauce’ is about to become your new favourite. It’s a recipe that will have you drizzling it on everything from noodles to nuggets.

The Origins

Originating in China, chilli oil has long been cherished for its ability to infuse dishes with a fiery punch. Traditionally made by infusing hot oil with dried chilli peppers, this elixir of spice has found its way into countless recipes, from stir-fries to dumplings. But in recent years, modern incarnations of this beloved side dish have emerged on the internet, giving rise to the phenomenon known as ‘wet wet sauce’.

Recipe: Chilli Oil Inspired ‘Wet Wet Sauce’

Ingredients

• 2 stems of Green Onions
• 1 tbsp Minced Ginger
• 3 tbsp Korean Chilli Flakes
• 1 tsp Sesame Seeds
• ½ cup Neutral Flavoured Oil + 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
• 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce
• 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar

Method

1. Begin by finely chopping the green onions and mincing the ginger, thus infusing your sauce with layers of aromatic goodness.
2. In a bowl, combine the Korean chilli flakes and sesame seeds, embracing the fiery essence that will define your sauce.
3. Heat up a mixture of neutral flavoured oil and sesame oil until it’s shimmering and fragrant.
4. Carefully pour the hot oil over the chilli flakes and sesame seeds, watching as they sizzle and combine their flavours.
5. Next, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce and rice vinegar, balancing the heat with a blend of umame notes.
6. Give everything a good stir, ensuring that every ingredient is thoroughly combined.
7. Allow your ‘wet wet sauce’ to cool to room temperature, giving the flavours a chance to meld and evolve into something truly extraordinary.
8. Once cooled, transfer your sauce to a jar or container, ready to unleash its addictive potential. You can add it on everything — from noodles to grilled meats. But be warned: once you start, you may find it impossible to stop.