Sweet Chili Sauce

One of those adaptable condiments that gives any meal the ideal amount of spice and sweetness is sweet chili sauce.

This sauce adds a flavor boost that’s easy and enjoyable, whether you use it as a spring roll dip, drizzle it over grilled meats, or stir it into stir-fries.

Since homemade sweet chili sauce is fresher, contains no preservatives, and can be customized to your amount of spiciness, I’ve always loved preparing it at home.

Once you try it, you might never go back to the store-bought version because it’s so simple to make.

How To Make Sweet Chili Sauce?

Preparation Times: 5 minutes

Cooking Times: 10 minutes

Course: Condiment

Cuisine: Asian

Yield: 1 cup (about 8 servings)

Equipment Needed

• Small saucepan
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Glass jar for storage

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup white vinegar (or rice vinegar for a milder taste)
• 1/2 cup sugar (use brown sugar for a richer flavor)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons chili flakes (adjust for your spice tolerance)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 teaspoons ketchup or soy sauce
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (to mix with the cornstarch)

Instructions

Step-1. Combine ingredients

In a small saucepan, add the vinegar, sugar, water, chili flakes, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well.

Step-2. Bring to a boil

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring it to a gentle boil.

Step-3. Add ketchup or soy sauce

Stir in the ketchup or soy sauce for added depth of flavor. Adjust the salt if needed.

Step-4. Prepare cornstarch slurry

In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of water with the cornstarch until fully dissolved. This will thicken your sauce.

Step-5. Thicken the sauce

Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step-6. Cool and store

Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Pour it into a glass jar, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts Of Sweet Chili Sauce

Nutrition	Amounts
Calories	40
Carbohydrates	10g
Sodium	43mg
Sugar	9g

Serving Suggestions

Dipping Sauce: Use it with spring rolls, fried chicken, or crispy tofu for a burst of flavor.

Glaze: Brush it on grilled meats like chicken, shrimp, or ribs.

Stir-fry: Add a spoonful of stir-fries for a sweet and spicy kick.

Tacos or Wraps: Drizzle over fish tacos or use as a filling sauce for wraps.

Tips and Variations

Adjusting Spice: If you prefer it less spicy, reduce the chili flakes. For more heat, add extra or use fresh chopped chilies.

Substitute Ingredients: You can substitute rice vinegar for white vinegar for a milder taste. You can also use honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness.

Thicker Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, add more cornstarch slurry. If it’s too thick, thin it with a bit of water.

Special Note

❖ Vinegar not only adds tanginess but also helps preserve the sauce. Use rice vinegar for a milder flavor, or go for white vinegar if you prefer a sharper tang.

❖ If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute white sugar with honey or coconut sugar, though this may alter the flavor slightly.

FAQS

Conclusion

Making your sweet chili sauce at home is quick and easy, and the result is a fresh, preservative-free condiment that beats store-bought options any day.

Whether you use it as a dip, glaze, or sauce, it’s sure to enhance the flavor of your meals. Try it once, and I’m sure you’ll always want to keep a jar handy!

This homemade version is customizable and can be adapted to suit your preferences, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen.