What is a cold sauce?

A "cold sauce" is a bit of a broad term, as it could refer to several things depending on the context. Here are some possibilities:

1. Sauce Served Cold: This is the most basic interpretation. It simply means a sauce that is served at room temperature or chilled. Many sauces, like vinaigrettes, pesto, or salsa, can be served cold, enhancing their flavor and texture.

2. Spicy Cold Sauce: This often refers to a type of sauce made with chili peppers, vinegar, and other ingredients, specifically designed to be served cold. Examples include Sriracha, Go-chu-chang, Sambal Oelek, and other hot sauces. These are often served as condiments, adding a fiery kick to dishes.

3. Cold Sauce for Dipping: This could be a variation of the previous point, but it specifically refers to a cold sauce meant to be dipped into food. Examples include ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, and sour cream-based sauces.

4. Cold Sauce as a Condiment: This refers to a cold sauce served alongside a dish, often as an optional condiment for adding flavor or texture. It could be a simple salsa, a spicy mayo, or a sweet-and-sour sauce.

5. "Cold Sauce" as a Slang Term: In some regions, "cold sauce" might be used as a slang term for a specific type of sauce. For example, in the Southern United States, it might refer to a vinegar-based sauce with a tangy flavor, often served with fried chicken.

To understand what a "cold sauce" is in a specific context, you need more information. What is the dish you're talking about? What is the region or culture associated with the term?

Providing more context will help you get a more precise answer.