Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce
Sweet chili sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors to various dishes. While store-bought versions are convenient, making it at home ensures a fresher, preservative-free, and customizable sauce that perfectly matches your taste preferences. Whether you use it as a dipping sauce, marinade, or drizzle, this homemade version is guaranteed to enhance your favorite meals.
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Ingredients for Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 cup |
| Rice Vinegar | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sambal Oelek (or finely chopped red chili) | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Ginger, grated | 1 teaspoon |
| Cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water) | 1 tablespoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the water, rice vinegar, sugar, honey, soy sauce, sambal oelek, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely.
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2. Simmer the Sauce
Allow the mixture to gently simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process helps the flavors blend and develop a deeper taste.
3. Thicken the Sauce
Once the mixture starts to bubble, add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) while stirring continuously. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, syrup-like consistency.
4. Cool and Store
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Use this homemade sweet chili sauce as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, grilled meats, or fried snacks. It also works beautifully as a glaze for chicken wings or a stir-fry enhancer.
