Step 1

In a small sauce pot, boil 1/2 cup of water with 1/4 cup of sugar on low heat until it's completely dissolved. Once dissolved, set aside to let cool.

Step 3

Next, use a food processor to mince the garlic, 2 bird's eye chiles, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until minced and well mixed.

Step 5

Once the sugar water is cooled, add in the mixture and stir well.

Step 7

Next, add in the fish sauce and the lime juice. Stir until well blended. Next, add in 1/4 cup of cold water. Blend well.

Step 9

Sample the nuoc mam and adjust as needed. You may need to add more of one of the ingredients depending on what is missing. For added sourness, add in lime juice. For added saltiness, add in fish sauce. For added sweetness, add sugar.

Step 11

To store, pour it into an airtight container and put it in the refrigerator for up to 4 months.