If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about adventurous flavors that can turn a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece, then let me introduce you to the world of XO Sauce. This magical blend of dried seafood, savory ham, and aromatic spices brings an explosion of taste that will elevate anything from a humble bowl of rice to a gourmet meal.
I first encountered this gem while experimenting in my kitchen, armed with a few pantry staples and a craving for something extraordinary. The rich, smoky aroma of the scalloped and shrimp-infused sauce sautéing in the pan was nothing short of intoxicating. The moment I tasted it, I knew this wasn’t just another condiment; it was a secret weapon for flavor-hungry home cooks like us. Perfect for those who are tired of fast food and crave homemade goodness, XO Sauce offers versatility and an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that everyone can enjoy.
Join me as I guide you through the simple steps to create this stunning sauce that will transform your everyday meals into something truly special!
Why is XO Sauce the Ultimate Culinary Treasure?
Unique, bold flavors: The combination of dried shrimp and scallops elevates any dish with a savory punch.
Versatile usage: Use it in stir-fries, as a marinade, or simply drizzled over rice for instant satisfaction.
Quick and easy: With just an hour of simmering, you’ll have a gourmet condiment ready to impress friends and family.
Crowd-pleasing delight: This sauce appeals to everyone, adding a delicious flair that makes homemade meals enticing.
Healthy indulgence: Packed with protein and rich flavors, XO Sauce is a delicious alternative to fast food that never sacrifices health.
For more incredible sauce recipes that will elevate your meals, check out our guide on sauces for every occasion.
XO Sauce Ingredients
Discover the essential elements you need to make a robust and flavorful XO Sauce.
For the Seafood Base
• Dried shrimp – Rehydrate and finely chop these tiny powerhouses for a burst of umami.
• Dried scallop – Rehydrate and shred for that rich, sweet flavor that enhances any dish.
For the Aromatics
• Chili – Adjust the quantity based on your heat preference; it kicks up the flavor profile!
• Garlic – Finely chopped garlic infuses a warm, fragrant note into the sauce.
• Red shallot – Adds a delicate sweetness that balances the savory elements.
For the Umami Boosters
• Smoked ham – Finely chopped, it delivers an irresistible smoky depth.
• Chicken bouillon powder – A little sprinkle packs an extra savory punch.
For the Sauce Consistency
• Oil – Two cups significant for frying to achieve a beautifully golden texture.
• Scallop water – This reserved soaking water enhances the sauce’s seafood essence.
For the Final Seasonings
• Sugar – A teaspoon for balancing flavors, adjust to taste.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning; remember to taste as you go!
• Shaoxing rice wine – Adds complexity and subtly sweet notes.
• Chili bean sauce (toban djan) – This ingredient adds a spicy kick and depth to your XO Sauce!
Now that you’re all set with the ingredients for this flavorful XO Sauce, let’s dive into the preparation steps and create a taste sensation that will enhance your homemade dishes!
How to Make XO Sauce
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Heat the oil: Warm up the oil in a pan over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the rehydrated and shredded scallops and fry for about 5 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Strain and set aside.
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Sauté aromatics: Return the oil to the pot and toss in the finely chopped garlic, chili, and red shallots. Cook for around 3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the shallots are brown.
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Combine ingredients: Add the previously fried scallops, dried shrimp, and smoked ham into the pan. Stir together, then season with sugar, salt, chicken bouillon powder, and chili bean sauce for an extra flavor boost.
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Simmer the sauce: Pour in 1 cup of the reserved scallop water. Let it simmer on low-medium heat for about 1 hour, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Don’t forget to mix in the Shaoxing rice wine after 1 hour!
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Jar and serve: Carefully transfer your delightful XO Sauce into an air-tight jar. The sauce can be served immediately or stored for later use with your favorite savory dishes.
Optional: Pair with steamed veggies for a colorful plate!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with XO Sauce?
Elevate your meals with delightful pairings that highlight the rich, savory flavors of this luxurious sauce.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains act as a perfect canvas, soaking up the bold flavors of the XO Sauce and balancing its richness.
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Stir-Fried Veggies: Bright, crisp vegetables add color and texture, creating a refreshing contrast against the sauce’s savory depth. Toss in bell peppers and snow peas for vibrancy.
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Fresh Rice Noodles: Their silky texture swaths the sauce, allowing every bite to burst with umami goodness. This makes for a comforting and satisfying dish that embraces the XO Sauce beautifully.
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Roasted Chicken Thighs: Juicy, tender chicken serves as a hearty base for a spoonful of XO Sauce. The sauce enhances each bite, bringing a touch of gourmet flair.
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Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Succulent shrimp cooked over an open flame take on a smoky essence that, when paired with XO Sauce, creates an irresistible duo.
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Crunchy Spring Rolls: The crispy texture and fresh herbs of spring rolls provide a delightful crunch. Dip them into XO Sauce for an exciting flavor explosion.
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Savory Oatmeal: For a unique twist, stir a spoonful of XO Sauce into your morning oats. It transforms the dish into a savory delight, perfect for adventurous eaters.
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Thai Iced Tea: This sweet, creamy drink cools down the palate after enjoying the heat of the XO Sauce and complements the dish beautifully.
Each pairing brings its own character to the table, ensuring a memorable meal that celebrates the richness of XO Sauce!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing XO Sauce ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can chop the dried shrimp, rehydrate and shred the scallops, and finely chop the garlic and shallots up to 24 hours in advance; simply store these ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can mix all the dry ingredients and seasonings for quick use when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy your homemade XO Sauce, just heat the oil, sauté the aromatics, and follow the remaining steps as directed. This way, you’ll have gourmet flavor ready in no time, without sacrificing quality!
How to Store and Freeze XO Sauce
Fridge: Keep your homemade XO Sauce in an airtight jar for freshness. It can last up to 1 month in the refrigerator, allowing you to savor the flavors at your convenience.
Freezer: If you want to store your XO Sauce for longer, freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To use frozen XO Sauce, simply thaw cubes in the fridge overnight or warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat. Enjoy the rich flavors in all your favorite dishes!
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid storing XO Sauce at room temperature, as the ingredients can spoil quickly. Always refrigerate or freeze for safety.
Expert Tips for Making XO Sauce
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Prep Ahead: Gather all your ingredients before starting. This will streamline your cooking process and ensure a seamless experience while making your XO Sauce.
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Choose Quality Seafood: Opt for high-quality dried shrimp and scallops for richer flavors. Inferior products can lead to disappointment in your savory sauce.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go! Add more chili if you love heat, or start with fewer chilis for a milder flavor. This way, your XO Sauce can suit everyone’s palate.
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Watch the Oil: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the scallops. Cooking them at too low a temperature can result in greasy, soggy scallops instead of crispy ones.
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Simmer Gently: The key to depth in your XO Sauce lies in slow simmering. If it reduces too quickly, consider adding a bit more reserved scallop water until you achieve the perfect thickness.
Experience the magic of XO Sauce, and don’t hesitate to get creative with it in your favorite dishes!
XO Sauce Variations
Feel free to customize your XO Sauce to suit your taste and pantry needs. Let your creativity shine with these exciting variations!
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Vegetarian: Swap out the dried seafood with sautéed mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes for a rich, umami-packed alternative. It helps maintain the depth of flavor while catering to plant-based eaters.
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Gluten-Free: Instead of Shaoxing rice wine, try using gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos. Your sauce will still shine bright without the gluten!
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Heat Boost: Add more chili or a splash of hot sauce if you’re craving extra spiciness! Embrace the thrill that heat can add to your already delicious creation.
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Sweet & Spicy: Mix in a small amount of honey or maple syrup alongside your sugar for a delightful sweet contrast to the spiciness. This will create a beautifully balanced sauce that dances on your palate.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil to introduce a rich, nutty flavor. It enhances the sauce’s overall depth and provides a hint of warmth.
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Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh lime or lemon juice before serving to zest up the sauce. The acidity can brighten the flavors and add an unexpected freshness.
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Texture Variation: Mix in finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or carrots while sautéing the aromatics. This adds a lovely crunch and color, making it even more appetizing.
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Herb Infusion: Infuse the sauce with fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions before serving. This will offer a burst of freshness and a vibrant pop of color to your XO Sauce!
XO Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of dried shrimp and scallop should I use?
Absolutely! Opt for high-quality dried shrimp and scallops. Look for ones that are firm and pale rather than soft or dark. This will ensure a rich flavor in your XO Sauce that elevates your dishes beautifully.
How should I store my XO Sauce?
For the best freshness, pour your homemade XO Sauce into an airtight jar. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 1 month. Make sure to label it with the date so you can savor the flavors at your convenience!
Can I freeze XO Sauce for later use?
Yes! I recommend freezing your XO Sauce in ice cube trays. Once the cubes are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. This allows you to use just the amount you need! The sauce can be kept for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight or gently warm in a saucepan.
What do I do if my XO Sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick while simmering, don’t worry! Simply stir in a little reserved scallop water or even water to achieve your desired consistency. Just add a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your perfect thickness.
Is XO Sauce suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
Very! Since XO Sauce contains dried shrimp and scallops, it’s not suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies. However, for a shellfish-free alternative, consider using dried mushrooms to replicate that umami flavor, or a mix of miso and soy sauce.
How long does it take to make XO Sauce?
The total time for making XO Sauce, from frying to simmering, is about 1 hour. It only requires about 5 minutes of frying and 1 hour of simmering to develop those rich, savory flavors that make this sauce a culinary treasure!
Enjoy experimenting with your XO Sauce, and feel free to reach out with more questions as you create this wonderful dish!
Savory Homemade XO Sauce to Elevate Your Dishes Today
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the rehydrated and shredded scallops and fry for about 5 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Strain and set aside.
- Return the oil to the pot and toss in the finely chopped garlic, chili, and red shallots. Cook for around 3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the shallots are brown.
- Add the previously fried scallops, dried shrimp, and smoked ham into the pan. Stir together, then season with sugar, salt, chicken bouillon powder, and chili bean sauce for an extra flavor boost.
- Pour in 1 cup of the reserved scallop water. Let it simmer on low-medium heat for about 1 hour, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Don't forget to mix in the Shaoxing rice wine after 1 hour!
- Carefully transfer your delightful XO Sauce into an air-tight jar. The sauce can be served immediately or stored for later use with your favorite savory dishes.