Some links on this page are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, The Asian Larder earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Thai sweet chilli sauce (nam chim kai) is a sticky dipping sauce of red chilli, garlic, sugar and vinegar, sweet first with a gentle heat behind it. It was originally made to serve with grilled chicken in Thailand, and is now the go-to dip for spring rolls and fishcakes in the UK.
What is Thai sweet chilli sauce?
How to use it
- As a dipping sauce for Thai fishcakes, spring rolls and prawn crackers.
- Brushed onto chicken or salmon as a glaze in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Mixed with lime juice and fish sauce for a quick salad dressing.
Where it originated
Thai sweet chilli sauce (nam chim kai) was originally created to serve alongside grilled chicken, its name literally translates to chicken dipping sauce, though it has become a general-purpose condiment for spring rolls, fishcakes and much more since.
Adjusting it yourself
A squeeze of lime juice stirred into a bottled sauce brightens it up if it tastes overly sweet or flat, a simple adjustment that brings a shop-bought bottle closer to a fresher, more balanced homemade version.
The best Thai sweet chilli sauce to buy in the UK
Mae Ploy is the sweet chilli sauce most Thai cooks reach for, and it is stocked in most large UK supermarkets and Asian grocers. Thai sweet chilli sauce is a sticky, sweet and mildly hot dipping sauce of chilli, garlic, sugar and vinegar, served with fishcakes, spring rolls and grilled chicken.
What to check on the label
- Sugar content, since some brands are much sweeter and thicker than others.
- Visible chilli flakes and garlic, a sign of a fuller-flavoured sauce.
- Thickeners and added colour in the ingredients list.
Sweet chilli sauce vs sriracha
| Type | Heat | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet chilli sauce | Mild, sweet | Dipping, glazing |
| Sriracha | Medium, garlicky | Adding heat to noodles and rice |
Checking chilli visibility
A better quality sweet chilli sauce usually has visible flecks of chilli and garlic suspended in it, rather than a completely smooth, uniform gel, which can suggest a more heavily processed, less flavourful version. Holding the bottle up to the light before buying is a quick, informal way to judge this.
Bottle size
Since it keeps well unopened and is used often as a dip, a larger bottle is sensible for regular use rather than repeatedly buying small ones at a higher cost per millilitre.
Where to buy Thai sweet chilli sauce in the UK
Thai sweet chilli sauce is stocked in almost every UK supermarket, with authentic Thai brands easiest to find in larger stores and Asian grocers.
Which aisle is sweet chilli sauce in?
Sweet chilli sauce is usually in the world food aisle with Thai ingredients, and sometimes with the table sauces and condiments.
Asian supermarkets
An Asian grocer carries the Thai brands in larger bottles, often at a better price per millilitre.
Buying it online
Online is handy for larger bottles or multipacks if you use it often.
Checking for visible chilli and garlic
Hold the bottle up to the light before buying if you can, visible flecks of chilli and garlic generally indicate a fuller-flavoured sauce compared with a completely smooth, uniform gel.
How to store Thai sweet chilli sauce
Most bottles keep in the cupboard before opening, then go in the fridge afterwards for the freshest flavour, similar to how most table sauces are handled once a seal is broken.
Frequently asked questions
Is sweet chilli sauce the same as chilli jam?
They are similar, but Thai chilli jam (nam prik pao) is thicker, smokier and made with roasted ingredients.
Can I make it at home?
Yes, simmer chopped red chilli and garlic with sugar, vinegar and water, then thicken with a little cornflour.
Does sweet chilli sauce need refrigerating?
Most bottles keep in the cupboard, but refrigerating after opening keeps the flavour fresher for longer.
Is sweet chilli sauce spicy?
Only mildly. The sugar balances the chilli, so it suits most people who find other chilli sauces too hot.
Is Mae Ploy the same as supermarket own-brand?
Both are sweet chilli sauces, but Mae Ploy is Thai-made and usually has more visible chilli and garlic.
How long does an opened bottle last?
Several months in the fridge. Check the label for the maker’s guidance.
Shop this
- Thai sweet chilli sauce. The classic dipping sauce for fishcakes and spring rolls.
