Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce – No Preservatives, Just Pure Flavor
Sweet chili sauce is a staple in Asian-inspired kitchens and a go-to dip for spring rolls, chicken tenders, tofu, grilled shrimp, and even roasted veggies. This homemade version is tangy, sweet, mildly spicy, and completely free of preservatives or artificial ingredients. Best of all, you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry!
Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup rice vinegar
- ⅓ cup water
- ⅓ cup + 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp rice wine
- 2 tsp dried chili flakes
- 1½ tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp finely minced ginger
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp cornstarch dissolved in 1 tbsp water
Note: If you prefer a less spicy sauce, reduce chili flakes to 1 teaspoon. For more heat, add extra or use crushed Thai bird’s eye chilies.
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a small saucepan, add the rice vinegar, water, sugar, rice wine, chili flakes, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Stir everything together over medium heat.
As the mixture heats, the sugar will dissolve and the flavors will begin to mingle. Keep stirring to prevent the sugar from burning.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Let the sauce come to a gentle boil. This helps to extract the full flavor from the garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
You should notice a fragrant, slightly spicy aroma as the sauce simmers—this is a good sign it’s developing flavor!
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to make a smooth slurry.
Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Cook for 1–2 minutes more until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools, so avoid overcooking it at this stage.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Remove the pan from the heat and let the sauce cool completely. Then pour it into a clean glass jar or airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of sauce.
Serving Ideas:
-
Use as a dipping sauce for dumplings, egg rolls, chicken nuggets, shrimp, or tofu.
-
Drizzle over rice bowls or stir-fried vegetables.
-
Glaze grilled chicken, salmon, or pork with it for a sweet-spicy finish.
-
Mix with mayo or yogurt for a creamy sweet chili dip or spread.
Tips and Variations:
-
No rice wine? Use dry sherry or a splash of white wine as a substitute.
-
Smoother texture: Strain the sauce before storing to remove bits of garlic and chili if you prefer a silky finish.
-
Make it garlickier: Double the garlic for a bolder punch!
See also:
