Sweet Chili Sauce is a popular condiment known for its perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and heat. Making it at home allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking and ensures a fresh, preservative-free product. This recipe provides a simple way to create a versatile sauce that can enhance the taste of numerous dishes.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Salt to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients
In a small saucepan, mix together the sugar, ¼ cup water, and white vinegar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
To the boiling mixture, add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and minced ginger. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and aromatic base.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In a separate small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually stir this slurry into the saucepan, ensuring it blends well with the simmering mixture.
Step 4: Final Cooking
Increase the heat to medium and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This thickening process is crucial for achieving the glossy, viscous consistency characteristic of sweet chili sauce.
Step 5: Season and Cool
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Season the sauce with salt to taste. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature; it will thicken further as it cools.
Step 6: Store and Serve
Transfer the cooled sauce to a jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. The sweet chili sauce is now ready to be used as a dip for spring rolls, a glaze for grilled meats, or a flavorful addition to various dishes.
COOKING Note
The consistency of the sauce can be adjusted by varying the amount of cornstarch slurry; add more for a thicker sauce or less for a thinner one.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet Chili Sauce is incredibly versatile and can be served with appetizers like spring rolls or chicken wings, used as a glaze for barbecued meats, or drizzled over stir-fried dishes to add a burst of flavor.
Tips
- For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a more pronounced garlic or ginger taste, you can adjust the quantities of these ingredients.
- This sauce can also be used as a base for dressings or marinades by adjusting the thickness and seasoning.
Prep Time
- 5 minutes
Cooking Time
- 10 minutes
Total Time
- 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 35-40 per tablespoon
- Sodium: Varies based on added salt
Conclusion
Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce not only offers a delightful mix of sweet and spicy flavors but also brings a personal touch to your culinary creations. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-have condiment in any kitchen, perfect for enhancing the flavor of a wide range of dishes.
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