Step 1

Use a mortar and pestle to crush the garlic cloves until they become a fine paste.Note: Doing this will enhance the garlic flavor but will make the sauce appear murky. If you'd prefer a clearer or milder aroma, finely chop the garlic instead.

Step 2

Melt the sugar in water over a low-medium heat, then mix in the fish sauce before turning off the heat and adding the vinegar and lime juice.

Step 3

When everything is seasoned to taste, pour in the garlic and chili. Let it infuse with the heat off for 1 minute before transferring the contents to a glass container to cool completely.

Step 4

Serve with your favorite Vietnamese dish!