The Secret to Great Tasting Thai Food
When people watch my cooking videos, one of the most common questions I get is “what is seasoning sauce?”.
In the West it seems like most people have heard of fish sauce, everyone has heard of soy sauce but hardly anyone has heard of seasoning sauce!
So what is it? To sum it up briefly, seasoning sauce is actually quite similar to soy sauce. Compared to soy sauce though, Thai seasoning sauce has a much more intense taste and is quite a bit saltier.
In Thailand, we use this sauce all the time!! The vast majority of Thai dishes use seasoning sauce so if you are planning on doing quite a bit of Thai cooking then you need to get yourself a bottle!
Just a few dashes really bring out the flavour in stir fries like Pad Krapow Gai , noodle dishes and soups.
The Green Green Cap Sauce – Golden Mountain Seasoning Sauce (ซอสปรุงรสฝาเขียว)
In Thailand, when we speak about seasoning Sauce we are usually referring to Golden Mountain Seasoning Sauce or as we like to call it, the green cap sauce (ซอสปรุงรสฝาเขียว)!! There are other brands but this is undoubtedly the most popular and is the one I always prefer to use.
Whenever I or other Thai chefs talk about seasoning sauce, we are referring to Golden Mountain Seasoning Sauce (ซอสปรุงรสฝาเขียว)
FAQ
Common Ingredients in Seasoning Sauce
Common ingredients in seasoning sauce include soy sauce, salt, sugar, vinegar, water, and various flavourings such as garlic, ginger, and spices. The exact ingredients can vary by brand and type of seasoning sauce.
Differences Between Seasoning Sauce and Soy Sauce
While both seasoning sauce and soy sauce are savoury condiments, seasoning sauce often contains additional ingredients like sugar and vinegar, making it slightly sweeter and tangier than regular soy sauce.
Using Seasoning Sauce in Dishes
Seasoning sauce is versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, including stir-fries, marinades for meat and seafood, salad dressings, dipping sauces, and as a condiment for rice and noodles.
Substituting Seasoning Sauce for Soy Sauce
Yes, you can use seasoning sauce as a substitute for soy sauce in many recipes. However, keep in mind that seasoning sauce may have a slightly different flavour profile due to the additional ingredients.
Varieties of Seasoning Sauce
There are various types of seasoning sauce available, such as light seasoning sauce, dark seasoning sauce, mushroom seasoning sauce, and vegetarian seasoning sauce. Each type may have a unique flavour and intended use.
Suitability for Vegetarians and Vegans
Some seasoning sauces are vegetarian and vegan-friendly, but it’s essential to check the label and ingredients list, as some brands may include fish or other animal-based ingredients.
Storage of Seasoning Sauce
Store seasoning sauce in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, keep it tightly sealed and refrigerate if required, following the instructions on the bottle.
Making Homemade Seasoning Sauce
Yes, you can make homemade seasoning sauce by mixing soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and various flavourings to your taste. Homemade seasoning sauce allows you to customise the flavours according to your preferences.
Health Considerations
Seasoning sauce can be high in sodium, so it’s essential to use it in moderation, especially if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns related to salt intake. Consider low-sodium or reduced-sodium options if needed.
Using Seasoning Sauce in International Cuisines
Yes, you can experiment with using seasoning sauce in various international cuisines to add depth and flavour. It can be a versatile ingredient in recipes from different culinary traditions.