Stop buying Sweet Chili Sauce at the store – you can make it at home in just 15 minutes!
In the realm of condiments, sweet chili sauce holds a special place. Its versatile flavor profile, combining sweetness, tanginess, and a hint of heat, elevates dishes from mundane to extraordinary. Whether used as a dipping sauce, a marinade, or a glaze, sweet chili sauce adds a burst of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves a lasting impression. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of crafting the perfect sweet chili sauce, exploring its ingredients, preparation techniques, and creative uses.
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Ingredints:
Ingredient | Quantity/Description |
---|---|
Water (divided) | – |
Wine vinegar | 2 cups |
Sugar | 2 cups |
Red jalapeƱo, red Fresno, or red serrano pepper | 4 tablespoons, finely chopped (stem removed) |
Garlic | 6 cloves, crushed and minced |
Clear Gel cleanser | 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (for thickening) |
Instructions:
- Prepare Clear Gel Cleanser:
- Before starting, ensure you have clear gel cleanser ready. This helps thicken the sauce. You can find it in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, mix water, wine vinegar, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Add Flavorings:
- Stir in finely chopped red peppers and minced garlic. Adjust the amount of peppers for desired spiciness. For milder sauce, remove pepper seeds before chopping.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Gradually sprinkle clear gel cleanser into the sauce while whisking continuously. Whisk until sauce thickens to desired consistency.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows flavors to meld and sauce to thicken further.
- Cool and Store:
- Remove saucepan from heat and let sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer to sterilized glass jars or bottles for storage.
- Enjoy:
- Your homemade Sweet Chili Sauce is ready! Serve with dishes like spring rolls, chicken wings, grilled shrimp, or use as glaze for meats and vegetables.