Ditch the store-bought stuff and get ready to make your own IRRESISTIBLE Sweet Chili Sauce right in your kitchen! This EASY recipe combines the perfect balance of sweetness and heat, creating a versatile sauce that will ELEVATE any dish.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Sauce
This isn’t just any sauce – it’s a GAME-CHANGER for your meals! Here’s why:
- QUICK & EASY: Ready in just 25 minutes!
- VERSATILE: Perfect for dipping, drizzling, or marinating
- CUSTOMIZABLE: Adjust the heat to your liking
- NO PRESERVATIVES: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to create your new favorite sauce:
- 1–2 tablespoons chili flakes (adjust for your desired heat level)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (optional, but recommended for FLAVOR BOOST)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar or regular vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (optional, for extra umami)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons additional water (for the cornstarch slurry)
How to Make Sweet Chili Sauce
- Mix Ingredients: Combine water, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce (if using), salt, and chili flakes in a small saucepan.
- Heat and Dissolve: Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Add Garlic: If using, add minced garlic once the mixture boils.
- Thicken: Create a cornstarch slurry and slowly add to the boiling sauce, stirring constantly.
- Simmer: Cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Cool and Store: Let it cool completely before transferring to a glass jar.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sweet Chili Sauce
- Start Mild: Begin with 1 tablespoon of chili flakes and adjust to taste.
- Garlic Lover? Sauté the minced garlic in oil before adding for an INTENSE FLAVOR KICK.
- Smooth Sauce: Use cold water for your cornstarch slurry to prevent clumping.
- Patience Pays Off: Let the sauce sit overnight for MAXIMUM FLAVOR DEVELOPMENT.
Serving Suggestions
Get ready to ELEVATE your meals with these ideas:
- Dip spring rolls, fried foods, or grilled meats
- Drizzle over salads for a sweet and spicy twist
- Use as a marinade for an EXTRA FLAVOR BOOST
- Add to stir-fries for a FLAVOR EXPLOSION
FAQs
Q: How long does homemade sweet chili sauce last? A: When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 2 WEEKS.
Q: Can I make this sauce less spicy? A: Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preference. Start with less and add more if needed.
Q: My sauce is too thin. What should I do? A: Simmer it for a few extra minutes. Remember, it will thicken as it cools!
Get ready to TRANSFORM your meals with this Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce! Whether you’re using it as a dip, a drizzle, or a marinade, this sauce is sure to become a STAPLE in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili flakes: Adjust to your taste for desired heat.
- 4 garlic cloves optional: Minced for flavor.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetness balances the heat.
- 1 cup water: Base for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar or regular vinegar: Adds acidity and tang.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce optional: Enhances umami flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickening agent.
- 2 tablespoons additional water for dissolving cornstarch: To create a slurry.
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce (if using), salt, and chili flakes.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- If you’re using garlic, mince it finely and add it to the mixture once it reaches a boil.
- In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the boiling sauce, stirring constantly.
- Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool completely.
- Transfer the cooled sauce into a glass jar or container with a tight lid.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Fresh garlic: For added flavor, sauté the minced garlic in oil before adding it to the sauce.
Storage: Always shake or stir before using, as the sauce may separate while stored.
