The vivid, fragrant Sweet Chili Ginger Sauce strikes the ideal sweetness, spice, and a hint of zing from fresh ginger.
This adaptable sauce is a delectable blend of Asian-inspired tastes, bringing together the warmth and scent of ginger, the richness of chili peppers, and a touch of sweetness to create an enticing combination for a broad range of foods.
Sweet Chili Ginger Sauce is a flavor explosion that elevates any dish, whether used as a glaze for grilled meats, dipping sauce for appetizers, or tangy addition to stir-fries.
For individuals who enjoy delving into the depths of sweet and spicy cuisine, this is a must-have due to its robust yet well-balanced flavor profile.
How To Make Sweet Chili Ginger Sauce?
Preparation Times: 10 minutes
Cooking times: 10 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Asian
Yields: About 1 cup (8 servings)
Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
- Knife
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- ½ cup rice vinegar
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar (or honey for a natural sweetness)
- ¼ cup fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon thyme, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step-1. Combine the base ingredients
In a small saucepan, pour in the rice vinegar, water, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely and the liquid begins to simmer.
Step-2. Add flavorful elements
Next, add the fish sauce (or soy sauce if you’re going vegetarian), garlic, chili peppers, and ginger to the simmering mixture. Stir well, letting the flavors combine, and cook together for about 3-4 minutes.
Step-3. Thicken the sauce
In a separate small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water. Once dissolved, slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid any clumps. The sauce will begin to thicken after a couple of minutes.
Step-4. Finish with herbs and seasoning
Add the freshly chopped thyme and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Stir for an additional minute to allow the thyme to release its aroma. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step-5. Cool and store
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a glass jar or airtight container. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Facts Of Sweet Chili Ginger Sauce
- Calories: 50
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
Serving Suggestions
Dip: Serve as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, fried dumplings, or chicken wings. Its sweet and spicy flavor perfectly balances the crispiness of fried snacks.
Glaze: Brush the sauce over grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to add a layer of flavor. The sweetness caramelizes beautifully when heated, giving your proteins a delicious, sticky coating.
Salad dressing: Drizzle over a fresh Asian salad with crunchy vegetables and sesame seeds. The tanginess of the vinegar and the warmth of the ginger make it a refreshing dressing.
Tips and Variations
Adjust the heat
If you’re sensitive to heat, use only one chili pepper or remove the seeds before chopping. On the flip side, if you love a fiery kick, feel free to add more chili or a dash of red pepper flakes.
Add a citrus twist
For a refreshing variation, add the zest of half a lime or lemon. This citrusy note pairs wonderfully with the spiciness of the chili and the warmth of the ginger.
Gluten-free option
To make the sauce gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce or fish sauce.
Health Benefits Of Sweet Chili Ginger Sauce
Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help soothe digestion and reduce nausea. It also adds a warming spiciness that promotes circulation.
Garlic: Garlic has been shown to boost the immune system and lower blood pressure. It’s a powerful antioxidant that can help combat illness.
Chili Peppers: Chili peppers contain capsaicin which is known for its metabolism-boosting properties.
Honey (if used): Honey is rich in antioxidants and provides a natural, unprocessed sweetness. It’s a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
Special Note
Its distinctive sweet-tangy balance can be maintained by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of regular sugar for a healthier alternative.
FAQS
Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before using it.
How long will this sauce last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the sauce will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Is this sauce suitable for vegans?
If you substitute fish sauce with soy sauce, this recipe becomes vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
Sweet Chili Ginger Sauce is one of those kitchen staples that can instantly transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or simply love the balance of sweet and savory, this sauce will find its place in your kitchen.
Sweet Chili Ginger Sauce
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
- Knife
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- ½ cup rice vinegar
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar or honey for a natural sweetness
- ¼ cup fish sauce or soy sauce for a vegetarian option
- 2-3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1-2 red chili peppers finely chopped (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon thyme chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, pour in the rice vinegar, water, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely and the liquid begins to simmer.
- Next, add the fish sauce (or soy sauce if you’re going vegetarian), garlic, chili peppers, and ginger to the simmering mixture. Stir well, letting the flavors combine, and cook together for about 3-4 minutes.
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water. Once dissolved, slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid any clumps. The sauce will begin to thicken after a couple of minutes.
- Add the freshly chopped thyme and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Stir for an additional minute to allow the thyme to release its aroma. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a glass jar or airtight container. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.