There’s something undeniably captivating about the dynamic dance of flavors in Red XO Sauce. Picture this: the moment you pick up the wooden spoon and dive into a fragrant skillet, the aroma of fresh ginger and garlic swirling around you, promising culinary adventures. I discovered this delicious concoction while experimenting in my kitchen, hoping to elevate simple stir-fries. What started as a quest for flavor quickly turned into a luxurious, umami-packed sauce that can transform any dish.

This recipe is not just about ease; it’s about creating a remarkable experience that impresses both family and friends. Imagine drizzling it over grilled vegetables, tossing it into fried rice, or using it as a dipping sauce for your favorite dumplings. With a rich blend of dried shrimp, aromatic spices, and just the right kick of heat, Red XO Sauce is the ultimate secret weapon in your culinary arsenal. Get ready to take your homemade meals from ordinary to extraordinary!

Why is Red XO Sauce so beloved?

Flavor Explosion: The Red XO Sauce is a symphony of tastes that enhances every bite with its rich, umami flavor profile.
Versatile Delight: Use it in countless dishes; it pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables, stir-fries, or as a dipping sauce.
Simple Preparation: With a straightforward method, even novice cooks can impress with this gourmet sauce.
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: This sauce is sure to wow family and friends, making you the star of any meal.
Make Ahead: Prepare this sauce in advance, saving time when cooking on busy nights—your future self will thank you!
Elevate your home cooking with this delicious addition; your taste buds will certainly rejoice!

Red XO Sauce Ingredients

For the Sauce
• Neutral oil – 1 cup, perfect for sautéing without overpowering flavors.
• Ginger – 1/3 cup, peeled and minced, adds a fresh, zesty note to the sauce.
• Shallots – 1/3 cup, minced, bringing a mild sweetness that balances the heat.
• Green onions – 1/4 cup, thinly sliced (white parts only), for an aromatic garnish and flavor boost.
• Garlic – 1/4 cup, minced, lending a warming, savory depth to every spoonful.
• Tomato paste – 4 teaspoons, adding richness and a subtle tang to the mix.
• Chinese chile flakes – 1 tablespoon, for that essential kick of heat in your Red XO Sauce.
• Shrimp paste – 2 teaspoons, preferably Lee Kum Kee shrimp sauce, enhancing the umami profile.
• Dried Shrimp or Dried Scallops – 4 ounces, store-bought or homemade, for a flavorful protein boost.
• Spicy salami – 1/2 cup, small-diced with casings removed, providing a hint of smokiness.
• Coriander seeds – 1 1/4 teaspoons, contributing a citrusy warmth that elevates the sauce.
• Red Sichuan peppercorns – 1 teaspoon, imparting a unique peppery bite and mild numbness.
• Anise seeds – 1/4 teaspoon, adding a delicate sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile.
• Fennel pollen – 1 teaspoon, for an aromatic hint reminiscent of licorice and earthiness.

For the Dried Shrimp or Dried Scallops (if making from scratch)
• Cold water – 1 1/2 cups, necessary for soaking to rehydrate the shrimp or scallops.
• Kosher salt – 2 1/4 teaspoons to 2 tablespoons, ensuring the seafood is well-seasoned.
• Large shrimp or sea scallops – 1 1/4 pounds of peeled and cleaned, ideally U-10 size, making this dish truly special.

How to Make Red XO Sauce

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 cup of neutral oil over medium heat until shimmering, creating a perfect base for your flavors to meld together.
Sauté Aromatics: Add 1/3 cup minced ginger, 1/3 cup minced shallots, 1/4 cup sliced green onions (white parts), and 1/4 cup minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Mix in Paste and Spices: Stir in 4 teaspoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of Chinese chile flakes, and 2 teaspoons of shrimp paste. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly combined, creating a flavorful base.
Incorporate Seafood and Spices: Add the 4 ounces of Dried Shrimp or Dried Scallops, 1/2 cup of small-diced spicy salami, 1 1/4 teaspoons coriander seeds, 1 teaspoon red Sichuan peppercorns, 1/4 teaspoon anise seeds, and 1 teaspoon fennel pollen. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until aromatic.
Combine and Heat Through: Continue stirring until all ingredients are well combined and heated through, ensuring a deliciously rich texture. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is bubbling and fragrant!

Optional: Serve this sauce over grilled proteins for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Red XO Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Red XO Sauce, transforming it into a dish that suits your taste buds.

Vegan Swap: Replace shrimp paste with miso for a rich, umami flavor without the seafood. It’s a fantastic substitute for maintaining depth.
Gluten-Free Upgrade: Ensure salami and any sauces used are gluten-free to enjoy this dish worry-free. Everyone deserves a tasty experience!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or cilantro for a burst of brightness; toss them in just before serving for a fresh touch.
Smoke and Spice: Incorporate smoked paprika for a deeper smokiness, adding dimension and warmth to the sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Nutty Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil for added richness and a hint of nuttiness that will tantalize your palate.
Citrus Zing: Brighten the sauce with a splash of lime or lemon juice, giving it a zesty kick that dances on your tongue.
Extra Heat: For spice lovers, increase the Chinese chile flakes or add fresh chopped chili; feel the heat sing in this delightful concoction!
Fruitiness: Incorporate a few tablespoons of diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast that will surprise and delight in every bite.

Let your culinary creativity shine with these variations, and enjoy your personalized masterpiece!

What to Serve with Red XO Sauce?

Elevate your meals with vibrant accompaniments that enhance the unique flavors of your Red XO Sauce.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the rich sauce, providing a fluffy base that balances the intense flavors.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bright, crunchy veggies like bell peppers and bok choy add freshness and color, creating a wholesome, vibrant dish.
Grilled Chicken: The smoky char of grilled chicken complements the umami attributes of the sauce, making every bite irresistibly savory.
Noodles: Tossed with some cooked noodles or stir-fried in the sauce, they become a deliciously decadent comfort food experience.
Dumplings: Perfect as a dipping sauce, the Red XO Sauce adds an explosion of flavor that transforms your favorite dumplings into a gourmet delight.
Sesame Broccoli Salad: The nutty flavor of sesame elevates the dish, while the crisp broccoli offers a refreshing contrast to the sauce’s richness.
Pineapple Fried Rice: Sweet and savory, this dish harmonizes perfectly with the spice of Red XO Sauce, adding a delightful tropical twist.
Coconut Milk Soup: The creamy texture and mild flavors of this soup contrast beautifully with the boldness of the sauce, providing a comforting balance.
Hibiscus Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option, this floral beverage cuts through the flavors, cleansing your palate between savory bites.
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, this fruity treat adds a refreshing sweetness that offsets the spiciness of the sauce, creating a delightful finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Red XO Sauce preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop and measure all aromatics—ginger, shallots, green onions, and garlic—up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you’re making the dried shrimp or scallops from scratch, soak and season them, then refrigerate for up to 3 days before use. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil, sauté the prepped ingredients, and proceed with the recipe as usual. This way, you’ll achieve the same delightful, umami-packed flavor with minimal effort, making your homemade meals come together seamlessly!

Tips for the Best Red XO Sauce

Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality dried shrimp or scallops for an authentic flavor; they significantly enhance the umami in your Red XO Sauce.
Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of Chinese chile flakes according to your heat preference; start small and taste as you go to avoid overwhelming spice.
Chop Evenly: Ensuring all your aromatics are chopped evenly helps them cook uniformly, creating a harmonious texture and flavor in the sauce.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Allow the aromatics to develop in the skillet for the full time; this step builds the foundation of delicious flavor, so give it time!
Storage Savvy: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week; the flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious!

Storage Tips for Red XO Sauce

Fridge: Store your homemade Red XO Sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 week. The flavors will meld and intensify, making it even more delightful!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Portioning it into smaller servings allows for easy defrosting.

Reheating: When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until warmed through and fragrant.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid keeping Red XO Sauce at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and freshness.

Red XO Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of ingredients should I choose for the best Red XO Sauce?
Absolutely! Opt for high-quality dried shrimp or scallops as they significantly enhance the umami flavor of your sauce. When selecting fresh ingredients, look for ginger that is firm and has smooth skin, shallots that feel heavy for their size, and green onions showing vibrant green tops without wilting. These choices ensure your sauce has maximum flavor and freshness.

How should I store leftover Red XO Sauce?
Very! Store your homemade Red XO Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This way, the flavors will meld and even intensify over time, creating a delightful experience with each use. Make sure the lid is sealed tightly to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting your sauce’s rich flavors.

Can I freeze Red XO Sauce, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Red XO Sauce, transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. I often portion it into smaller servings for easy defrosting later on. The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

What if my Red XO Sauce tastes too salty or spicy?
No worries! If your sauce comes out too salty, adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors. If you find it’s too spicy, consider simmering it with a little coconut milk or unsweetened cream to mellow the heat. Always taste as you go, and adjust seasonings gradually to achieve the perfect balance for your palate.

Can pets eat Red XO Sauce?
It’s best to keep your Red XO Sauce away from pets. The sauce contains garlic and other spices that can be harmful to pets in larger quantities. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider plain steamed vegetables or cooked, unseasoned meats instead. Always consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations for your furry friends.