When most people think of Thai food, they imagine colourful curries, fragrant stir-fries, and fresh, zesty salads. But ask any Thai local, and they’ll tell you: the magic is often in the sauce.
At Lime and Basil, we see dipping sauces as more than just condiments. They’re flavour bridges—bringing together textures, tastes, and aromas to create the perfect bite. Made fresh in our kitchen every day, our sauces follow time-honoured recipes that capture the essence of authentic Thai cuisine.
Whether you’re enjoying a crispy spring roll, juicy grilled skewers, or fresh vegetables, the right sauce transforms a dish from tasty to unforgettable.
Why Sauces Matter in Thai Food
In Thai cooking, balance is everything. A good sauce combines sweet, salty, sour, and spicy in just the right proportions. It doesn’t overpower—it enhances.
Think of Nam Pla Prik, a simple yet potent mix of fish sauce, chopped chillies, and lime juice. One drop can brighten a plate of rice or make grilled fish sing. This precision in flavour pairing is part of what makes Thai cuisine so distinctive.
If you’re new to this side of Thai cooking, our Beginner’s Guide to Thai Food is a great resource to help you understand these flavour profiles and how they work together.
Signature Thai Sauces
Sweet Chilli Sauce
Mild heat meets gentle sweetness. Perfect for pairing with crispy appetisers like Poh Pia Moo (pork spring rolls). The balance of tang and sugar makes it a crowd favourite for kids and adults alike.
Nam Jim Seafood
Zesty, garlicky, and full of life. This sauce is made with fresh lime juice, garlic, coriander, and chillies, making it the perfect partner for grilled prawns or squid.
Peanut Sauce
Creamy, nutty, and slightly sweet, our peanut sauce is rich without being heavy. It’s perfect for grilled meats, fresh spring rolls, or as a side to satay skewers.
Lime and Basil Thai Dressing
Our signature creation, made in-house. It combines rice vinegar with finely chopped chillies, garlic, and fresh herbs—especially Thai basil—for a tangy, fragrant finish. This sauce cuts through fried or grilled dishes beautifully, offering a clean, bright taste that enhances without overpowering.
These sauces aren’t just extras—they’re essential. Just like the dishes in our 7 Must-Try Dishes from EVERY Thai Food Menu, they form part of Thailand’s culinary identity.
The Cultural Role of Sauces in Thailand
In Thailand, dipping sauces are always placed in the middle of the table for everyone to share. This communal approach reflects the Thai value of eating together and customising food to individual tastes.
It’s not uncommon for locals to experiment—mixing sauces together or adding fresh ingredients at the table. At Lime and Basil, we encourage the same spirit of exploration.
Small Bowls, Big Flavours
Thai dipping sauces may be served in small bowls, but they have a big impact. At Lime and Basil, each one is crafted with care to complement our menu and give you the authentic taste of Thailand in every bite.
Craving the full flavour experience? Join us at Lime and Basil and discover how our signature sauces can transform your meal from delicious to extraordinary.