Name: Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ½ cup unseasoned rice vinegar; ½ cup water; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sambal oelek (store-bought chili garlic paste); ½ teaspoon minced garlic; ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (or ½ teaspoon fresh ginger paste); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water

This Sweet Chili Sauce is a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, perfect for dipping, drizzling, or glazing. It’s a quick and easy recipe that brings a touch of Asian-inspired flair to your favorite dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
Balanced Flavors: A delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.
Versatile: Perfect for dipping, drizzling, or glazing a variety of foods.
Homemade Goodness: Superior to store-bought versions with fresh, customizable flavors.

Ingredients

Unseasoned Rice Vinegar: Provides a tangy, acidic base.
Water: Thins the sauce to the desired consistency.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tang and spice.
Soy Sauce: Contributes a savory, umami depth.
Sambal Oelek (store-bought chili garlic paste): Provides a spicy kick and garlic flavor.
Minced Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory note.
Ground Ginger (or fresh ginger paste): Contributes a warm, spicy flavor.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a glossy consistency.
Water (for cornstarch slurry): Dissolves the cornstarch for thickening.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients

Combine rice vinegar, water, sugar, soy sauce, sambal oelek, garlic, and ginger in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Dissolve Sugar

Stir regularly until the sugar is dissolved.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

Whisk together cornstarch and remaining water in a small bowl. Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan. Stir continually until thickened, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Let the sauce cool completely, pour into an airtight jar, and store in the refrigerator.

Step 5: Serve

Makes about 1 cup of sauce.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Adjust the amount of sambal oelek to control the spice level.
Use fresh ginger paste for a brighter ginger flavor.
For a smoother sauce, strain the sauce after thickening.
Add a splash of fish sauce for extra umami.

How to Serve

Use as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, egg rolls, or dumplings.
Drizzle over grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
Glaze roasted meats or tofu.
Use as a condiment for tacos or sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used, but rice vinegar provides the most authentic flavor.

2. Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar can be used as alternatives to granulated sugar.

3. How can I make this sauce spicier?

Add more sambal oelek, red pepper flakes, or a few drops of hot sauce.

4. Can I make this sauce without cornstarch?

Yes, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a thickener. Follow the same procedure as with cornstarch.

Emily

Hey, I'm Emily! I'm a home cook with a passion for fun, real recipes that make my kitchen my happy place. Dive in and share the flavor of my everyday foodie adventures!

Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe