Sweet Chili Sauce

Short Description

Sweet Chili Sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it an essential condiment for dipping, glazing, or drizzling. This homemade version is fresher and more flavorful than store-bought, with just the right amount of heat. Use it for spring rolls, chicken, seafood, stir-fries, or as a marinade!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in 10 minutes.
• Better than store-bought—no preservatives or artificial flavors.
• Versatile—perfect for dipping, marinades, and stir-fries.
• Adjustable heat level—customize the spice to your preference.
• Long shelf life—stores well for weeks in the fridge.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Water
• Rice vinegar
• Sugar
• Garlic (minced)
• Red chili flakes or fresh red chilies
• Soy sauce (or fish sauce for extra depth)
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Salt

Directions

1. Mix the base: In a saucepan, combine water, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, and red chili flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add seasoning: Stir in soy sauce (or fish sauce) and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Thicken: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water. Slowly pour into the sauce while stirring. Simmer until thickened.
4. Cool and store: Remove from heat, let cool, then transfer to a jar. Store in the fridge.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 1 cup
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 5 minutes
• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Use Thai bird’s eye chilies or Sriracha for more heat.
• Mild Version: Reduce chili flakes and add more sugar.
• Honey Sweetened: Substitute part of the sugar with honey for a richer taste.
• Ginger Kick: Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm slightly if it thickens too much in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce without cornstarch?

Yes! Let the sauce simmer longer to naturally reduce and thicken.

What can I use instead of rice vinegar?

White vinegar or apple cider vinegar works, but rice vinegar has the best flavor.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

How can I make it more savory?

Add a splash of fish sauce or a little more soy sauce.

Can I use fresh chilies instead of flakes?

Absolutely! Blend or finely chop them before adding to the sauce.

How do I fix a sauce that’s too thick?

Add a little water or vinegar and stir to loosen it.

Can I make this sugar-free?

Yes! Use honey or a sugar substitute like erythritol.

What dishes go well with sweet chili sauce?

It’s great with spring rolls, grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or as a stir-fry sauce.

Can I make a large batch?

Yes! Double or triple the recipe and store in multiple jars.

Why did my sauce turn too runny?

It may need more cornstarch. Simmer it longer or add an extra cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Sauce is a simple yet flavorful condiment that enhances countless dishes. Whether you use it as a dip, glaze, or stir-fry sauce, this homemade version is fresher, tastier, and fully customizable. Try making your own and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet heat!

Print