XO sauce

XO sauce is a luxurious Hong Kong condiment made from dried seafood (typically scallops and shrimp), Chinese ham, chilies, garlic, and shallots, all slow-cooked in oil until jammy and intensely flavorful. Despite its name, it contains no XO cognac - the "XO" refers to its premium status. The sauce delivers complex umami depth with subtle heat and a slightly chunky texture.

Home bakers can incorporate XO sauce into savory applications like stuffed buns, scallion pancakes, or cheese straws for sophisticated flavor. A small amount goes far - just a tablespoon mixed into dough or used as a filling transforms ordinary baked goods into restaurant-quality appetizers. Its concentrated seafood essence pairs particularly well with cream cheese in pastries or mixed into herb butter for bread.