Sweet chili sauce—it’s like a love letter in a bottle, right? The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it dances on your tongue and makes everything from spring rolls to grilled chicken just sing. My first encounter with this magic sauce was at a street market, and trust me, it was love at first taste.
Steps
- In a small saucepan, combine all ingredients except the cornstarch mixture and bring to a boil, stirring frequently.
- Once the sugar has completely dissolved, stir in the cornstarch mixture and continue stirring for about one minute until the sauce thickens.
- Allow the sauce to cool entirely, then transfer it into an airtight jar for storage.
- Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for two to three months, reheating gently to restore texture before use.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sambal oelek or dried red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch mixture)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 304 kcal | Carbohydrates: 80 g | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 8 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Sodium: 344 mg | Potassium: 56 mg | Sugar: 72 g | Vitamin C: 8 mg
FAQ
- What is Sweet Chili Sauce?
- Sweet Chili Sauce, also known as Thai or Asian Sweet Chili Sauce, is a flavorful condiment that combines sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy elements. It typically includes ingredients such as red chilies, garlic, ginger, sugar, and vinegar.
- How can I give my Sweet Chili Sauce a vibrant red color?
- If you’re using sambal oelek, it will naturally provide a nice red hue. However, if you need more color, you can add natural red food coloring, often made from beet or paprika extract, to enhance its appearance.
- How should I store homemade Sweet Chili Sauce?
- Store the sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator, where it will keep for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze it for two to three months. If frozen, gently reheat to restore its texture.
- Can I make a sugar-free version of Sweet Chili Sauce?
- Yes, you can substitute the sugar with a powdered or granulated sweetener of your choice, such as Swerve or erythritol, to create a sugar-free version of the sauce.
- What are some ways to use Sweet Chili Sauce?
- Sweet Chili Sauce can be used as a dip, marinade, or an addition to various dishes, including wontons, spring rolls, chicken wings, grilled shrimp, vegetables, meatballs, tofu nuggets, and more. It also pairs well mixed with cream cheese and served with crackers.
Tips
- Adjust Spice Level: If you’re using sambal oelek for the chili paste, it will impart a nice red color and a moderate heat level. However, if you’re substituting dried red chili flakes, be aware that they are spicier, so reduce the amount if you prefer a milder sauce.
- Enhance Flavor with Umami: To balance the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce, incorporate tamari or soy sauce. This adds a depth of umami flavor, making the sauce more complex and interesting.
- Natural Color Boost: For a brighter red hue in your sauce, consider adding natural red food coloring made from beet or paprika extract. This is an optional step, but it can enhance the visual appeal of the sauce.
- Sugar-Free Option: To make a sugar-free version, replace the sugar with a granulated sweetener like erythritol or Swerve. This allows you to enjoy the sweet chili sauce without the extra calories or sugar content.
Equipment
- Small Saucepan – Essential for boiling and simmering the sauce.
- Airtight Jar – Useful for storing the sauce in the refrigerator.
- Natural Red Food Coloring – If you decide to enhance the red color of your sauce naturally (optional).
- Cornstarch – To thicken the sauce, if not already available at home.
