Jeow Som (Lao Spicy Dipping Sauce)

Step 1

Using a mortar and pestle, start by pounding the chilis and garlic together until you have a smooth paste.

Step 2

Add fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar to the mortar. Use the pestle to grind and stir the ingredients until the sugar dissolves gently.

Step 3

Add the chopped cilantro to the mix and stir together again. Taste your Joew Som and adjust with more fish sauce, lime juice, or sugar for your taste buds. Add more cilantro as well if you'd prefer in your sauce. That's it!

Step 4

Blend the Ingredients using a spice grinder or small food processor. Combine the prepared chili peppers, garlic cloves, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of liquid to help turn the blades. It can be fish sauce or lime juice (allocated for the recipe, not in addition). Blend until you achieve a harmonious and finely textured sauce.

Step 5

Scoop everything into a serving bowl and add the fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. I like to use my mortar and pestle for this as they fit and create an authentic feel to your sauce. Stir well using a spoon or spatula.

Step 6

Adjusting the Flavors. Taste your Jeow Som and make any necessary adjustments to suit your palate. You can add more lime juice for extra tang, sugar for sweetness, or fish sauce for saltiness. That's it! Jeow Som is now ready to grace your table. Yum!