Sweet chili sauce
Sweet chili sauce is a versatile and tangy condiment made from a blend of red chilies, garlic, sugar, and vinegar, offering a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Popular in Southeast Asian cuisine, it is commonly used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, fried foods, or grilled meats, and can also be incorporated into marinades and stir-fries for added flavor. Its appealing combination of sweetness and mild heat makes it a favorite for enhancing various dishes without overpowering their natural taste.
Equipment
- 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
- In a small saucepan, add the vinegar, sugar, water, chili flakes, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring it to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the ketchup or soy sauce for added depth of flavor. Adjust the salt if needed.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of water with the cornstarch until fully dissolved. This will thicken your 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.
- 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.
Notes
❖ 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.