Print Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
This Sweet Chili Sauce recipe is a versatile, flavorful addition that takes only 5 minutes to make. Whether you’re using it as a marinade, dipping sauce, or glaze, it adds a perfect balance of sweetness and spice to any dish. Plus, you get all the goodness of homemade with no preservatives.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight jar or container for storage
Ingredients
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth. You can substitute with garlic powder if needed.
- Red Chili Flakes: For heat; adjust to taste. Substitute with Sriracha for a smoother texture.
- Honey or Sugar: Adds sweetness. Honey is a natural sweetener while sugar gives a classic taste.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick. Substitute with white vinegar if unavailable.
- Water and Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce without overpowering flavors.
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine garlic, red chili flakes, honey (or sugar), and rice vinegar with water. Whisk well to mix.
- Simmer: Set the pot on medium heat and slowly pour the mixture into it. Stir nonstop for two to three minutes till the sugar melts.
- Thicken with Cornstarch: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Pour this mixture into the saucepan and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning or heat level as desired.
- Cool and Store: Allow the sauce to cool before transferring it to an airtight jar or container. It can be kept in the fridge for two weeks.
Notes
Insider Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adjust Spice Level Gradually: Start with a smaller amount of chili flakes, tasting as you go.
- Consistent Stirring: Keep stirring the sauce while it simmers to prevent clumping.
- Avoid High Heat: Cook over medium heat to keep the sauce from burning or becoming too thick.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store your sweet chili sauce in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- Reheating: If needed, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen if it thickened in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
- Serve alongside fried rice or noodle dishes to add a sweet-spicy kick.
- Use it as a dipping sauce for shrimp skewers or as a drizzle for salmon.
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