Hey y’all! Whether you’re looking to spice up your snacks or add some zing to your dishes, this Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce is the perfect condiment. It’s deliciously sweet, with just the right amount of heat, making it an ideal accompaniment for everything from spring rolls to grilled chicken. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It’s a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
- Homemade means no preservatives, just fresh ingredients.
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes.
- A versatile sauce that pairs well with many dishes.
- Adjustable heat level to suit your taste preference.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Directions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a saucepan, combine water, rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, bringing it to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Remove from heat and let the sauce cool before transferring it to a sterilized jar. Store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. More on adjusting spice levels can be found here.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply add more cornstarch slurry.
- Learn more about the nutritional benefits of garlic here.
Variations
- Mango Chili Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of pureed mango for a fruity twist.
- Pineapple Sweet Chili: Substitute rice vinegar with pineapple juice for a tropical flavor.
- Spicy Tomato Chili: Add 1/4 cup of tomato paste for a rich and tangy variation.
Required Equipment
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Sterilized jar
Storage Instructions
Store your Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays.
Suggested Pairings
This sauce is a terrific complement to spring rolls, fried chicken, or grilled shrimp. It also serves excellently as a glaze for meats or a dipping sauce for veggies.
Pro Tips
- For a smoother texture, blend the sauce after cooking. Read more about blending techniques here.
- To ensure even cooking, stir the sauce frequently while it heats.
- Taste the sauce before thickening to adjust flavors to your preference.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh chilies instead of red pepper flakes? Yes, finely chop fresh chilies to your desired heat level.
- Is there a substitute for rice vinegar? Yes, apple cider vinegar can be used as an alternative.
- How do I make the sauce gluten-free? Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari sauce.