Unlock the secret to irresistible summer noodles with our tangy, easy hiyashi chuka sauce. Refresh your palate with this quick, flavor-packed recipe!
Servings
3
servingsPrep time
5
minutesCooking time
5
minutesHiyashi Chuka Sauce Ingredients
Soy Sauce: 4 tablespoons (60 ml)
Substitute: Tamari or low-sodium soy sauce if needed.Vinegar: 4 tablespoons (60 ml)
Recommended: Rice vinegar for mild tang.Mirin: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Substitute: 1 tablespoon sugar + 1 tablespoon water, though flavor differs.Sugar: 3 tablespoons
Water: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
Ginger Juice: 1 teaspoon (from freshly grated ginger)
Substitute: 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, but fresh is better.Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon (fresh-squeezed if possible)
Substitute: Lime juice for a citrusy twist.Vegetable Oil (e.g., salad oil): 2 teaspoons
Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
Hiyashi Chuka Sauce Directions
- Heat the First Set of Ingredients
Combine (for heating):
Soy sauce (4 Tbsp), vinegar (4 Tbsp), and mirin (1 Tbsp).
These three benefit from gentle heating: soy & vinegar become milder, mirin’s alcohol evaporates.
Bring to a Boil: In a small saucepan, stir the mixture over medium heat until it boils.
Remove from Heat: No need to skim anything—just ensure it comes to a brief boil.
Tip: Heating these three condiments makes their flavors mellow and cohesive. - Cool Down with Remaining Ingredients
Add Sugar & Water: Immediately after removing the saucepan from heat, stir in 3 Tbsp sugar and 2 Tbsp water. The cooler sugar-water reduces the sauce’s temperature.
Incorporate Ginger & Lemon: Once the sauce is a bit cooler (lukewarm to the touch), add 1 tsp ginger juice and 1 tsp lemon juice to preserve their fresh flavors.
If sauce still feels too hot, continue stirring until it reaches a comfortable warmth.
Add Oils: Finally, stir in 2 tsp vegetable oil and 1 tsp sesame oil. Mixing at this stage helps flavors stay vibrant. - Chill & Store
Refrigerate: Let the sauce cool completely. Store in a sealed container.
Shelf Life: Keeps about 1 week in the fridge, so feel free to make it ahead.
Notes
- Versatile Use: Though designed for Hiyashi Chuka (cold ramen salad), this dressing can also be drizzled over chilled veggies or tossed into salads.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a more tangy sauce, reduce sugar slightly. Add more sugar for a sweeter result.