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    Home » recipes » Ssam Jang, How to Make the Best Sauce for Korean BBQ and Beyond

    asian

    Ssam Jang, How to Make the Best Sauce for Korean BBQ and Beyond

    Ssam Jang is the spicy, savory, sauce that you absolutely need in your life. Sure you can buy one of the ready-made green plastic tubs, but why? Make it at home by combining a few ingredients to transform basic condiments to a savory, put-it-on-everything sauce. Once you've had your own homemade ssam jang, you'll never go back. Shall we?

    Jump to Recipe
    ssamjang in serving bowl
    Explore More
    • What is Ssam Jang 쌈장?
    • What to do with Ssam Jang Beyond Korean BBQ
    • Is Ssam Jang Healthy?
    • What Ingredients You Need for Homemade Ssam Jang
    • What Doenjang Should I Buy and Use
    • Advance Prep, Leftovers and Storage
    • Ssam Jang Recipe
    ssamjang with salmon and galbi

    What is Ssam Jang 쌈장?

    Ssam Jang, sometimes spelled as one word ssamjang, is a thick, salty, umami-rich sauce. It is made with doenjang 된장, a fermented soybean paste, as the primary ingredient along with gochujang 고추장 for heat and a few other ingredients.

    You probably know Ssam Jang best as a condiment served with Korean BBQ that you dollop onto rice and a piece of BBQ and wrap into a lettuce leaf. The literal translation of "ssam" and "jang" from Korean to English are "wrap" and "sauce." But Ssam Jang can also be used as a dip for vegetables as well as a sauce to mix into rice.

    Consider Ssam Jang an all-around condiment/dip/sauce, kind of the way you would use American BBQ Sauce as a condiment, a dip for chicken tendies, and a sauce.

    Ssam Jang with rice and salmon in lettuce wrap

    What to do with Ssam Jang Beyond Korean BBQ

    The most common and obvious use for Ssam Jang is for ssam, serving it as a condiment or sauce alongside Korean BBQ, grilled chicken, and/or fish to dollop onto little bundles of rice wrapped in a variety of leafy lettuces and herbs.

    But you can use Ssam Jang a lot of different ways! In this house, there is always a jar of homemade Ssam Jang in the fridge to use as a dip for cut fresh vegetables.

    Here are some more ideas to try:

    • "Weeknight Ssam," without the full koreanBBQ panoply, just eat Ssam Jang with some steamed rice, cooked salmon or canned tuna, and some lettuce leaves
    • Stir Ssam Jang as a sauce into any grain bowl that needs a spicy, umami kick
    • Use as an alternative to Bibimbap Sauce for mixing into traditional Bibimbap and Salmon Bibimbap!
    • more funk, less heat sauce for Bibim Guksu, Korean spicy chilled noodles
    • Dollop onto hard-boiled eggs for a super-umami protein snack
    • Thin out with a few tablespoons of water or rice vinegar and drizzle over roasted vegetables like Charred Broccoli
    • Shake with more rice vinegar and avocado oil for an AWESOME salad dressing
    ssam jang on korean grocery shelf
    Pre-made Ssam Jang at the Korean grocery, packaged in green containers

    Is Ssam Jang the Same as Gochujang?

    No, Ssam Jang is not the same thing as gochujang. Ssam jang is a final condiment/sauce made primarily of doenjang and gochujang, along with other seasoning ingredients.

    What is the Difference Between Gochujang, Doenjang, and Ssamjang?

    Gochujang, Doenjang, and Ssam Jang are all related, they do have the word "jang" in them. However, they are very different in their ingredients and what they're used for.

    Ssam Jang is a finished product that you use as a condiment, dip, sauce, spread, etc, and contains doenjang and gochujang as primary ingredients. You can buy store-bought prepared Ssam Jang, usually packaged in green plastic tubs (pictured above) and stacked in the same aisle with gochujang and doenjang, but why? It's so much better when you make it yourself. Besides, if you buy the two main ingredients, you can use those ingredients for a lot of other things. Speaking of Ssam Jang ingredients...

    Doenjang is a fermented soybean paste, not unlike Japanese miso, that has more funk and deeper flavor. It is usually not used on its own, but as an ingredient in other dishes. It is the primary ingredient in Ssam Jang, and other Korean dishes like Doenjang Jjigae (Korean Soybean Paste Soup/Stew).

    Gochujang is a spicy hot chile pepper paste made by fermenting chile pepper powder with rice. It is an ingredient that adds heat to Ssam Jang.

    ssam jang and vegetables at restaurant

    Is Ssam Jang Healthy?

    Before we even get to the nutrient-level health benefits, it's worth nothing that one of the MOST important benefits of Ssam Jang is that it makes you eat MORE vegetables because you cannot help yourself from dipping carrot after cucumber after carrot in it. I hate the overused cliché, but something about the salty umami of Ssam Jang truly is addictive. In a good way.

    Doenjang Has Probiotic-like Qualities. Doenjang, the primary ingredient in Ssam Jang, is made by fermenting soybeans with salt. Similar to its Japanese cousin miso, doenjang contains gut-health promoting probiotic bacteria. That fermentation gives doenjang its umami flavor, that salty, savory deliciousness that's hard to pinpoint in foods.

    Gochujang Also Has Probiotics. Gochujang, the spicy chile pepper-based sister to doenjang, is made by fermenting Korean hot chili peppers with rice and sometimes soybeans. It also contains gut-health promoting probiotic bacteria.

    Ssam Jang Dietary Considerations

    As long as you pay attention to the individual base ingredients in the doenjang brand you use, this recipe for Ssam Jang is:

    • dairy-free
    • gluten-free
    • refined sugar-free—if you use maple syrup, honey or no sweetener at all!
    • low carb—though not keto, paleo, or Whole30 because doen jang is made from soy beans and gochujang itself contains trace grains for fermentation, soy, and sometimes alcohol

    One thing y'all ask me is whether doenjang, gochujang, and now Ssam Jang are part of an anti-inflammatory diet. In general, hot sauces made from chili peppers are a gray area because chili peppers are a nightshade and for some people, nightshades can exacerbate inflammation. If hot sauces, and chili peppers in general, don't cause issues for you, you're good to go!

    ssamjang ingredients in mixing bowl

    What Ingredients You Need for Homemade Ssam Jang

    For homemade Ssam Jang, you only need a few ingredients:

    • doenjang, ¼ cup
    • gochujang, 2 tablespoons
    • garlic, 2-3 cloves minced
    • green onion, 1 stalk, sliced
    • maple syrup, 2 teaspoons
    • sesame oil, 1 teaspoon

    ** Pro-tip: You can make the Ssam Jang spicier by adding more gochujang.

    doenajng brands i use
    doenjang straight from container

    What Doenjang Should I Buy and Use

    The doenjang shelves at a grocery store can be overwhelming. Doenjang is usually packaged in golden beige plastic tubs and jars, similar to the way all gochujang is packaged in red.

    The best doenjang will have only two ingredients, soybeans and salt. However, most commercial brands sold in stores also have additional ingredients like alcohol as a preservative, flavor enhancers like sugar and MSG, and fermentation aids like wheat and koji.

    Read the labels for the shortest ingredient list. The fewer ingredients, the more "authentic" (and probably more expensive!)

    These are brands of doenjang I actually use and recommend, mostly because I look for products with no sugar/sweeteners and no wheat:

    • Sempio Togul Doenjang contains only soybeans, water and salt, with an aging period of 6 months.
    • Sempio Bek-il Doenjang, same brand and ingredients as above, but specifically labeled as "aged for 100 days"
    • Chung Jung One "Kong" Doenjang, has soybeans, salt, and added koji starter, but this has been the easiest one to find, for me, in a Korean grocery store that has no wheat or msg. The texture is more coarse, with larger pieces of soybeans.

    This brand makes doenjang with only soybeans and salt, and is available online. I have not tried it.

    Doenjang, like any condiment, varies in aging time, level of intensity of flavor, texture, and ingredients across brands. The base ingredients are soybeans and salt. From there, ingredients vary, including wheat and koji starter to speed up fermentation, alcohol or other form of preservatives, and sometimes even seasonings like garlic and/or onion. Read the labels to look out for any ingredients to which you are sensitive.

    doenjang and miso comparison

    Can You Substitute Miso for Doenjang?

    Of course you can substitute miso for doenjang, but I'd only go this route as a very very very last resort.

    Both Japanese miso and Korean doenjang are made of fermented soybeans, but they taste different. Korean doenjang is saltier, "funkier," and may have a coarser texture. Miso is lighter, milder, and some kinds may even have an underlying natural sweetness.

    If you have to use miso, use the darkest miso you can find, usually a red miso called "aka-miso" that's fermented longer so it's deeper in flavor and saltiness.

    gochujang brands on shelf at korean grocery store

    What is the Best Gochujang to Use

    Gochujang is a Korean hot pepper paste made by fermenting chili peppers with rice and/soybeans. It has a deep-toned, savory umami flavor with a subtle background sweetness. Though sometimes literally called a "sauce," gochujang is actually more a starter ingredient used to make and flavor marinades, sauces, soups and more, and not something you would use directly out of the container at the table to season a final dish.

    Which Type or Brand of Gochujang is Best?

    Use any kind of gochujang that suits your taste and preferred heat-level. These are brands of gochujang I actually use and recommend, mostly because I look for products with no corn syrup and no wheat:

    • O'Food Gochujang contains tapioca syrup rather than corn syrup. It does not contain wheat in the ingredients, though the label indicates that it's made in a facility that also processes wheat
    • O'Food Gluten Free Gochujang, same brand and ingredients as above, but specifically labeled gluten-free because it's made in a dedicated gluten-free facility
    • Trader Joe's, surprisingly, has a good gochujang made in Korea and if you're new to gochujang, the container is small enough that you won't feel overwhelmed
    • Mother in Law's Gochujang deserves a mention because I have tried it several times, it tastes great and most importantly it is available at many Whole Foods markets, which might be more accessible than a Korean grocery store. However, the ingredients do include wheat flour as well as malt syrup, made form barley (gluten).

    Additional Ingredients Resources and Notes

    Maple Syrup. I prefer the sweetness of natural maple syrup to refined sugars, and use a very little amount, if any at all. I use an organic maple syrup like this. You can also use honey, or even pureed dates.

    Sesame Oil. Toasted sesame oil is a finishing oil, added to dishes in small amounts just before serving for its flavor, rather than a cooking oil. It is darker in color and has a deep umami flavor. This is a reliable Japanese brandthat I've been using since I was a kid. There are now many brands of toasted sesame seed oil available, even organic versions, at regular grocery stores.

    Roasted Sesame Seeds. Sesame seeds add some texture and when toasted, a layer of umami in addition to the toasted sesame oil. You can buy sesame seeds plain or toasted. Make sure theseeds are toasted. If they are not toasted, toss them in a hot, dry skillet over medium heat for about 90 seconds or until they are fragrant.

    Any and all other herbs and produce from local farmers' markets or Whole Foods market

    Grab any of the ingredients here:

    Level-up Ssam Jang with Variations

    Once you get your base recipe down, you can add ingredients to Ssam Jang for different flavor variations. Here are some to try:

    • Asian pear or Fuji apple: 1-2 tablespoons of grated or blended Asian pear will add natural sweetness and make the ssam jang a more spreadable texture
    • toasted walnuts: finely chopped, adds a layer of toasted, nutty umami
    • canned tuna: my Mom adds canned tuna to give the ssam jang a deep, seafood umami flavor, and adds texture. This makes Ssam Jang heartier, so you can eat this with just rice wrapped in a lettuce leaf without added protein from Korean BBQ

    Advance Prep, Leftovers and Storage

    Ssam Jang will last in the refrigerator for up to two weeks if you use a clean utensil to take it out of its container. So make it a week in advance, or store fresh leftovers for up to two weeks in an airtight container.

    Freezer. You can freeze Ssam Jang for up to 6 months in an air-tight container with as much air removed. Thaw in the refrigerator. I recommend against microwave thawing. Stir the thawed sauce to re-combine the ingredients before serving.

    Side Note: You can freeze straight-up plain doenjang and gochujang for up to 12 months.

    momofuku bossam full spread
    Bossam spread with ssam jang served as a sauce
    ssam jang in serving bowl
    Print Recipe
    5 from 140 votes

    Ssam Jang Recipe

    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Total Time5 minutes mins
    Course: Condiments, Dips/Spreads, Sauce
    Cuisine: asian, korean
    Keyword: gochujang
    Servings: 0.5 cup
    Prevent your screen from going dark
    Calories: 76kcal

    Ingredients

    • ¼ cup doenjang, Korean fermented soy bean paste
    • 2 tablespoon gochujang
    • 2 cloves garlic finely minced (about 1 teaspoon)
    • 1 stalk of minced green onion
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
    • 2 teaspoon sesame seeds
    • 1-2 tablespoons water to thin the sauce for texture

    Instructions

    • Stir together all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Transfer to serving bowl and garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
    when you make this recipe, let us know!Mention @TheDelicious or tag #thedeliciousmademedoit!

    Notes

    1 serving = 2 tablespoons.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 76kcal | Protein: 1.5g | Fat: 2.4g | Fiber: 0.4g

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Lindsay Van Kirk says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:15 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is french onion. creamy, classic, savory, delicious!

      Reply
    2. Erica says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:17 pm

      5 stars
      I love spinach and artichoke dip. :)

      Reply
    3. Kathy - Panini Happy says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:17 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip: good ol' 7-layer dip :-)

      Reply
    4. junie12e says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:17 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is hot artichoke dip! YUM! Thank you for the great giveaway!

      Reply
    5. Sean P. says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:17 pm

      5 stars
      Spinach/artichoke!

      Reply
    6. Stacy says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:17 pm

      5 stars
      Artichoke dip, because artichokes are delicious in any form.

      Reply
    7. April says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:19 pm

      5 stars
      I'm a huge fan of the Williams-Sonoma breakfast and brunch book and would love to try this new one.

      My favorite dip is salsa from Papalote.

      Reply
    8. irene says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:21 pm

      5 stars
      i love spinach dip.

      Reply
    9. laurel says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:25 pm

      5 stars
      french onion dip :)

      Reply
    10. Ting says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:25 pm

      5 stars
      I love hummus. It is so delicious plain or jazzed up!

      Reply
    11. brittany says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:25 pm

      5 stars
      Smoked salmon dip!

      Reply
    12. Ali says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:29 pm

      5 stars
      I love hummus :) So much so I've mastered my own Sun Dried Tomato Hummus... it is Yummus.
      http://hisbirdiesnest.blogspot.com/2009/10/hummus-is-yummus-sun-dried-tomato.html

      Reply
    13. anne says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:30 pm

      5 stars
      avocado aioli is awesome for tortilla chips and fries!

      Reply
    14. Lana says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:31 pm

      5 stars
      Blue cheese dip. With fresh veggies. Yum. Yum.

      Reply
    15. Meggie says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:54 pm

      5 stars
      That spinach dip that comes in the center of a hollowed out loaf of pumpernickel bread.

      Reply
    16. Craig says

      December 09, 2009 at 12:54 pm

      5 stars
      Hot Crab dip.

      Reply
    17. Nastassia says

      December 09, 2009 at 1:00 pm

      5 stars
      my favorite dip is a cold and creamy spinach and leek dip!

      Reply
    18. Leslie says

      December 09, 2009 at 1:07 pm

      5 stars
      my favorite dip is from The Barefoot Contessa, her Sun-dried Tomato Dip, delicious!

      Reply
    19. jkru says

      December 09, 2009 at 1:11 pm

      5 stars
      my favorite dip is queso because Texas is apparently rubbing off on me...

      Reply
    20. Mel says

      December 09, 2009 at 1:12 pm

      5 stars
      My moms spinach dip with organic full fat sour cream!

      Actually… crab dip.. yes..

      Reply
    21. PJ says

      December 09, 2009 at 1:18 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite is onion soup dip, but the carmelized onion that was in your headline sounds like it might even be better!

      Reply
    22. Doris says

      December 09, 2009 at 1:19 pm

      5 stars
      My absolute favorite is spinach artichoke dip!

      Reply
    23. Zoe says

      December 09, 2009 at 1:55 pm

      5 stars
      Cheddar cheese crab dip - served warm.

      Reply
    24. Pamela M says

      December 09, 2009 at 2:59 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip, no matter how bad for me it is, is hot baked spinach artichoke dip. I prefer to make it without mayonnaise, because the idea of baking mayonnaise just weirds me out, but yeah, that's my favorite.

      Reply
    25. Lily says

      December 09, 2009 at 4:25 pm

      5 stars
      my favorite dip is the spiciest galicy salsa my sister makes. it rocks!!!

      Reply
    26. Anisha V says

      December 09, 2009 at 4:58 pm

      5 stars
      Favorite dip = my homemade guacamole! Tons of lime & pinch(es) of sea salt FTW!

      Reply
    27. keri says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:06 pm

      5 stars
      spinach artichoke dip. :)

      Reply
    28. Bertha says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:11 pm

      5 stars
      I'm always trying to find a great menu for the holiday and what's not to love about caramelized onion and sour cream? yumm.....

      Reply
    29. saveur says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:13 pm

      5 stars
      As unhealthy as it is, my favourite dip is a cheese dip! All you need is onion, cheese (cheddar, monteray jack, etc) plus mayo!

      Reply
    30. kristy says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:20 pm

      5 stars
      anything cheesy, buttery, creamy.... mmmmm!

      Reply
    31. Caitlin says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:27 pm

      5 stars
      You can never go wrong with Spinach and Artichoke Dip. I actually highly recommend the one in Ellie Krieger's cookbook - delicious!

      Reply
    32. TobyD says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:31 pm

      5 stars
      I love my Black Bean Salsa - a dip for Scoops!

      Reply
    33. Minxi says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:32 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip has got to be my stepdad's homemade guacamole. I have no idea how he seasons it, but it is delicious!

      Reply
    34. karen says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:35 pm

      5 stars
      spinach and artichoke, deadly but so good

      Reply
    35. Katelyn says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:35 pm

      5 stars
      I love spinach and artichoke dip...nice and warm with lots of pepper jack and parmesan cheese. That's my favorite! (and no one makes it better than my mom!)

      Reply
    36. Lauren says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:36 pm

      5 stars
      I love Spinach and Artichoke Dip and Guacamole.

      Reply
    37. Sarah J. Gim says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:42 pm

      5 stars
      i am beginning to sense a common theme here with spinach and artichokes....

      Reply
    38. Stephanie says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:42 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is my own super-flavorful and heart-healthy version of guacamole with homemade pita chips.

      Reply
    39. Anna says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:47 pm

      5 stars
      Gotta repeat it- Spinach and Artichoke Dip!

      Reply
    40. Kareen says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:55 pm

      5 stars
      Cream cheese with pesto and oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. Spread on a Town House cracker. Yum!

      Reply
    41. LS says

      December 09, 2009 at 5:58 pm

      5 stars
      spinachhhhhhhhhhhh! hot or cold. mmmm.

      although thanks to a handful of you, i plan to spend the next 15 minutes looking for crab dip recipes !

      Reply
    42. sunny says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:00 pm

      5 stars
      in a word (or in a syllable), guac!

      Reply
    43. Alexandra says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:02 pm

      5 stars
      SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE. Oh my gosh. The one dip that I miss more than anything since I became lactose intolerant is that! I have yet to find a good lactose free version of it but gosh. It's so, so, SO good.

      Reply
    44. Kate says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:03 pm

      5 stars
      Green Chile Cheese!

      Reply
    45. Emily says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:05 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is mine and my mom's homemade cheese and apricot spread (made with cream cheese, Monterey jack cheese, apricots, and golden raisins) that we dip with apple and pear slices, and crackers of course!

      Reply
    46. fizah says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:07 pm

      5 stars
      cheese dips win hands down! :)

      Reply
    47. somcak says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:09 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is spinach-artichoke dip or Rueben dip - it's a tough call!

      Reply
    48. Leah says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:18 pm

      5 stars
      Chocolate Fondue!

      Reply
    49. Julie says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:23 pm

      5 stars
      Mentioned in the tweet, but my favorite dip is a spicy homemade crab dip that includes a healthy amount of vibrant Sriracha. Num.

      Reply
    50. Diane says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:23 pm

      5 stars
      OH! tied between french onion dip and guacamole

      Reply
    51. Luisa says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:23 pm

      5 stars
      RT @TheDelicious Another Quick #HolidayGiftaway: http://is.gd/5h91j My favorite dip is Sundried Tomato Hummus”

      Reply
    52. Lisa Teague says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:30 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is Buffalo Chicken Dip. It's the best with Scoops Chips.

      Reply
    53. jack says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:34 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is that 7-layer monstrosity. I could eat my weight in that!

      Reply
    54. deb says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:37 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is the Barefoot Contessa's onion dip. So creamy and delicious - after my party guests go home, I plop down on the couch with the bowl and a spoon and devour whatever people have been stupid enough to leave behind. :)

      Reply
    55. Caroline says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:40 pm

      5 stars
      my favorite dip is the dill dip from la bou!

      Reply
    56. Jessica says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:43 pm

      5 stars
      I love bruschetta with cannellini beans! Or tofu mixed with roasted veggies and herbs/spices and a touch of olive oil.

      Reply
    57. ErinsFoodFiles says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:44 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip or spread, might be my Hot Broccoli Dip! YUM!

      Reply
    58. c. dempsey says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:47 pm

      5 stars
      vegetable dip!!!

      Reply
    59. Tiffie Lee says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:50 pm

      5 stars
      Spinach & Artichoke Dip - hands down.

      Reply
    60. Jessica says

      December 09, 2009 at 6:57 pm

      5 stars
      my friend makes a great baked artichoke dip. I sure do miss it!

      Reply
    61. Lily says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:01 pm

      5 stars
      I am ALL about spinach artichoke dip.

      Reply
    62. Cynthia says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:09 pm

      5 stars
      My favourite dip is hummus

      Reply
    63. Crystal K. says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:10 pm

      5 stars
      I love Spinach And Artichoke Dip it is absolutely wonderful and I could literally just eat it as a meal!

      Reply
    64. Nutmeg Nanny says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:17 pm

      5 stars
      Cold spinach dip inside a hollowed out giant Hawaiian bread roll. It's the best!!!!

      Reply
    65. Alice says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:21 pm

      5 stars
      Can't beat baba ghanoush. haha.

      Reply
    66. Michelle says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:25 pm

      5 stars
      I love to dip. My favorite is buffalo chicken dip with chips or celery. I also love Harry and David pepper dip made with cream cheese.

      Reply
    67. Belinda says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:26 pm

      5 stars
      Definitely spinach and artichoke dip :]

      Reply
    68. rachel says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:27 pm

      5 stars
      by far, just plain goat cheese slightly warmed.

      Reply
    69. Brooke T. says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:28 pm

      5 stars
      Our favorite dip is our home-made spinach dip! Yum. (:

      Reply
    70. My Nguyen says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:29 pm

      5 stars
      I love spinach dip!

      Reply
    71. Erin says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:34 pm

      5 stars
      Yum!

      Reply
    72. ilysen says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:37 pm

      5 stars
      hummus

      Reply
    73. Jess says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:38 pm

      5 stars
      I love guacamole!

      Reply
    74. Ethan says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:41 pm

      5 stars
      Probably hummus with some kick to keep me on my toes, or the classic seven layer dip with jalapenos all over the place

      Reply
    75. Martha says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:44 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is definitely hummus (especially with roasted red peppers!)

      Reply
    76. Audrey says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:44 pm

      5 stars
      I love Hummus, Lebanese style. It's so delicious, I typically like to eat it by the spoonfuls. It's also very good for ya!

      Thanks ^~^

      Reply
    77. Sarah says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:50 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is spinach, cheese, and crab!

      Reply
    78. mia says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:50 pm

      5 stars
      current fave is buffalo chicken dip

      Reply
    79. Lauren says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:52 pm

      5 stars
      Definitely homemade spinach and artichoke dip with toasted pita rounds!

      Reply
    80. Mia says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:54 pm

      5 stars
      Add another vote for spinach-artichoke!

      Reply
    81. ephrat says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:55 pm

      5 stars
      Definitely hummus, the creamier/smoother the better!

      Reply
    82. Erin Sue says

      December 09, 2009 at 7:55 pm

      5 stars
      Spinach and artichoke dip!

      Reply
    83. Robert says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:02 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite has to be htipiti

      Reply
    84. Jess says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:02 pm

      5 stars
      Spinach artichoke dip - could never get tired of it (at least not until my pants stopped fitting, but i think it'd be worth the switch to pants with an elastic waistband to keep having more :)

      Reply
    85. New Cook on the Block says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:03 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is my mom's guacamole. Or homemade applesauce when you have pork chops to dip!

      Reply
    86. Jessie says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:05 pm

      5 stars
      Its definitely a toss up! French onion/cream cheese and crab

      Reply
    87. Kelly says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:15 pm

      5 stars
      White bean dip. Mmmm. Creamy and delicious, but everyone's always surprised how low in fat it is! (Minus, I guess, the olive oil ... but that's the good kind, right?)

      Reply
    88. Debbie Hill says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:16 pm

      5 stars
      I love crab dip with cream cheese and lots of Old Bay!

      Reply
    89. jo says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:18 pm

      5 stars
      I love any types of Turkish/Mediterrian dips and hummus would be my pick. Delish with some turkish flat breads!

      Reply
    90. Quinn says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:36 pm

      5 stars
      Port wine dip!

      Reply
    91. Jodi says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:37 pm

      5 stars
      After scrolling through the above entries I still stand by hummus.

      Reply
    92. Tina says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:38 pm

      5 stars
      i like dipping bread into a really good extra virgin olive oil and then some dukka. if that doesn't count as a "spread", then i'd say roasted eggplant dip with pomegrante seeds

      Reply
    93. Duke says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:39 pm

      5 stars
      Hot Crab Spread is how I roll.

      Reply
    94. Wanna says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:43 pm

      5 stars
      My favourite dip? Has be be spicy salsa! The spicier, the better! Yum!

      Reply
    95. Sarah says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:45 pm

      5 stars
      Green Goddess Dip (it gets me every time!)

      2 cups mayonnaise
      6 anchovy fillets, minced
      1/2 cup sour cream
      2 tablespoons tarragon vinegar
      2 tablespoons chopped green onion
      2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon (or 1 T dried)
      2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or 1 T dried)
      3/4 teaspoon salt
      1/2 teaspoon pepper
      Place all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well, or better yet, pulse briefly in a food processor or blender.
      Cover and refrigerate to chill the dip thoroughly and to allow the flavors to blend. This recipe can be prepared up to 2 days ahead.
      Serve with cooked artichoke leaves and other vegetable dippers, and assorted crackers and toasts.
      This makes about 3 cups.

      YUM!

      Reply
    96. Jennifer says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:52 pm

      5 stars
      Guacamole with South African avocados but American chips.

      Reply
    97. Jennifer says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:53 pm

      5 stars
      Hard to choose, but I'm going to have to say spinach dip - so good!

      Reply
    98. Meryl says

      December 09, 2009 at 8:55 pm

      5 stars
      Chipotle Hummus!

      Reply
    99. joiei says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:00 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is the hummus I make and serve with crispy wonton crackers.

      Reply
    100. A Ng says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:01 pm

      5 stars
      My fave dip is three cheese artichoke dip.

      Reply
    101. Michelle {Brown Eyed Baker} says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:01 pm

      5 stars
      Oh I just spent oodles of time lusting over this book at the local bookstore! I would love to win it!

      My favorite dip is spinach artichoke dip, served with potato chips, tortilla chips, or pieces of fresh bread!

      Reply
    102. Mellisa says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:02 pm

      5 stars
      I make a yummy rosemary lemon canellini bean dip that is a great hummus swap and delicious with pita chips!

      Reply
    103. Leah Sarah says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:12 pm

      5 stars
      My favourite dip is definitely hummus! It's diverse, tasty, and healthy!

      Reply
    104. Marti says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:17 pm

      5 stars
      I think I could love almost any dip made with GREEK YOGURT. My gosh, I feel like I've been waiting all my life for this stuff to come out!

      I want to rush out and buy some blue cheese or onion soup mix to see if it is as tasty as I think it might be. Of course, I'm not allowed to eat anything that it might go on.... soooooooo......

      Reply
    105. mira says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:21 pm

      5 stars
      hummus and spinach dip

      Reply
    106. Kristen says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:23 pm

      5 stars
      creamy, garlicky, cuminy hummus ^^

      Reply
    107. Heather Owens says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:23 pm

      5 stars
      Hummus

      Reply
    108. Julie says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:39 pm

      5 stars
      I really love a basic guacamole.... avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice and salt, done up chunky-style. It is so basic, healthy, and delicious.

      Reply
    109. Lillian says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:39 pm

      5 stars
      spinach artichoke dip. nom nom nom

      Reply
    110. SY says

      December 09, 2009 at 9:52 pm

      5 stars
      hot crab spread is absolutely D*E*L*I*C*I*O*U*S

      Reply
    111. Caroline Jordan says

      December 09, 2009 at 10:09 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is hummus! YUM!

      Reply
    112. megan says

      December 09, 2009 at 10:15 pm

      5 stars
      yummmmmmm

      Reply
    113. sara says

      December 09, 2009 at 10:17 pm

      5 stars
      Mmmm, it's got to be muhammara for me! :)

      Reply
    114. Selina says

      December 09, 2009 at 10:39 pm

      5 stars
      Mexican 7 layer dip! YUM!

      I love caramelized onions, and love sour cream...so I HAVE to try this recipe! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
    115. Maureen says

      December 09, 2009 at 10:53 pm

      5 stars
      Garlic and spinach dip. Or really warm cheesy crab dip.

      Reply
    116. Yen says

      December 09, 2009 at 11:03 pm

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is this one my father in law makes. I'm not even if it has a name, but it has chili (with and without beans), cream cheese and A LOT of cheese. Baked.

      Reply
    117. Gemma says

      December 09, 2009 at 11:37 pm

      5 stars
      Since I was in Greece, I love TZATZIKI !

      Reply
    118. Jackie at PhamFatale.com says

      December 09, 2009 at 11:55 pm

      5 stars
      spinach artichoke dip

      Reply
    119. Cathy says

      December 09, 2009 at 11:59 pm

      5 stars
      Hummus. I make my own, and love it in any flavor. Last night I made dill and killed my food processor...

      Reply
    120. Michael says

      December 10, 2009 at 12:01 am

      5 stars
      Would have to go with any form of blue cheese dip or Taramosalata as Gemma's Greece entry made me think about...

      Reply
    121. Ryan Y. says

      December 10, 2009 at 12:59 am

      5 stars
      so many good dips
      hot spinach artichoke dip
      guac w/chunky avocado, pepper, lime, salt, w/or w/o tomatoes
      spicy salsa
      hummus dip
      black bean dip

      Reply
    122. Sarah J. Gim says

      December 10, 2009 at 3:38 am

      5 stars
      Thanks all for playing along! The giveaway entry period is over, but please do continue to comment with your favorite dip. After all the comments today, I am now fascinated by what is popular :)

      Reply
    123. Sharmishtha says

      December 10, 2009 at 3:39 am

      5 stars
      My favorite dip is this mushroom in orange creme that I make. It is rich, sweet, unique and can be adapted to a low fat version for the vain :)

      Reply
    124. Sarah J. Gim says

      December 10, 2009 at 3:51 am

      5 stars
      Sharmishtha: "for the vain" is the BEST thing i've read all day. granted, it's only four hours into the day (4 am here in Cali), but still, so funny because it's so true.

      Reply
    125. bmk says

      December 10, 2009 at 4:15 am

      5 stars
      I love salmon dip.

      Reply
    126. Carolyn says

      December 10, 2009 at 4:45 am

      5 stars
      I love adding scallions and seasonings to cream cheese. Add avocado and you have a great TexMex spread.

      Reply
    127. Smadar says

      December 10, 2009 at 6:04 am

      5 stars
      Easy: guacamole.

      Reply
    128. Niki says

      December 10, 2009 at 6:15 am

      5 stars
      I love Skordalia, which is a Greek cold garlic potato dip. And when I saw garlic, I mean like equal parta garlic and potato!!! Okay, maybe not, but darn near close to it!

      Reply
    129. Janet Robinson says

      December 10, 2009 at 7:19 am

      5 stars
      I think cold spinach dip with bread and veggies is my favorite. The crunch of the water chestnuts makes it the perfect treat!

      Reply
    130. Anna says

      December 10, 2009 at 9:04 am

      5 stars
      i love a classic chickpea/tahini hummus... though i'm also open to variation: white bean/garlic, sundried tomato/basil, feta/herb... yum!

      Reply
    131. Michelle McGlynn says

      December 10, 2009 at 9:13 am

      5 stars
      Swiss cheese bacon dip ( it is a recipe adapted from Rachael Ray).

      Reply
    132. MrsDocChuck says

      December 10, 2009 at 10:19 am

      5 stars
      My husband's gall bladder problems make dip a thing of the past for us. A guilty pleasure I enjoy only on the rare occasion we are invited to a pot luck or smorgasboard.

      You all are making me drool with your recipes and ideas!

      Reply
    133. Kirsten says

      December 10, 2009 at 10:26 am

      5 stars
      hope its not too late - love your blog! gotta go w/ old fashioned onion dip made w/ Nancy's organic sour cream.

      Reply
    134. Jana says

      December 10, 2009 at 11:17 am

      5 stars
      I love taco dip!

      Reply
    135. Keely B says

      December 10, 2009 at 12:06 pm

      5 stars
      spinach dip in a pumpernickel loaf!

      Reply
    136. elsa says

      December 10, 2009 at 12:16 pm

      5 stars
      spinach-artichoke

      Reply
    137. Van says

      December 10, 2009 at 1:08 pm

      5 stars
      Artichoke dip is my favorite one.

      Reply
    138. Charity says

      December 10, 2009 at 1:12 pm

      5 stars
      Creamy cucumber dinner, as cool and refreshing as breeze in the summertime!

      Reply
    139. Mellisa says

      December 10, 2009 at 7:01 pm

      5 stars
      Wow, thank you so much!! I can't wait to try out the recipes :)

      Reply
    140. Sarah J. Gim says

      August 17, 2025 at 4:36 pm

      5 stars
      so funky, so good

      Reply
    5 from 140 votes

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