Description
This easy-to-make Chinese Sweet and Sour Sauce is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Ready in just 12 minutes, it enhances any dish from stir-fries to dipping sauces, making it a versatile condiment for your kitchen.
Ingredients
Sweet and Sour Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the ketchup mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce until fully combined.
- Create the cornstarch slurry: In a separate small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water, stirring well to avoid lumps.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour the ketchup mixture into the saucepan with the aromatics. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry again and add it into the saucepan. Continue to cook and stir for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Finish and serve: Remove the saucepan from heat, let the sauce cool slightly, then serve as a delicious topping or dip for your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Adjust sugar and vinegar amounts to your taste preference for sweetness or tanginess.
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili garlic sauce.
- This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Stir well before using if the sauce has been refrigerated, as it may thicken or separate slightly.
- Use it as a glaze for meats, a dipping sauce for appetizers, or a flavorful addition to vegetable stir-fries.