The Classics

The One with the Ramen Noodles

and the lip-smacking, sweet sesame dressing

SOUND BITE

Not sure what to feed your F•R•I•E•N•D•S at your next social gathering? Make sure the menu includes this relatable, reliable, really delicious mix of crunchy veggies, toasted almonds and crushed ramen noodles with an addictively sweet, sesame-ginger dressing. Popular for decades, yet not exactly gourmet fare, people always go nuts for this retro recipe.

What is Thai Sweet Chili Sauce?

I’m going to guess that you’re either a big fan of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce or you don’t know what the heck it is. Am I right?

You’ve likely seen it in the condiment aisle, but if you’ve never tried it, this recipe is your reason to buy it. 

It’s a perfect balance of sweet and heat—made with red chili peppers, vinegar, sugar, garlic and a touch of salt. It’s not crazy-spicy, so don’t worry—it won’t set your mouth on fire. 

It’s more of a gentle, tingly warmth with some sweetness to keep things friendly.

If you’ve ever dunked a crispy spring roll into a sticky, slightly spicy sauce at a Thai restaurant, you’ve already met this magic ingredient. But it’s not just for dipping! 

It’s a great addition to marinades, stir-fry sauces and salad dressings, like the one you’re about to devour in my Ramen Noodle Salad.

This blast-from-the-past salad has been a potluck favorite for decades, but the Thai Sweet Chili Sauce gives it a fresh, modern twist. It adds just the right amount of kick without overpowering the sesame-ginger dressing. 

Dare I say, “Thai it, you’ll like it!?” 

(Male voice: Please don’t.)

Greta, dejected: Oh. Alright then, I won’t.