Description
This Chinese Sweet and Sour Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful condiment that perfectly balances tangy and sweet notes. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, pork, tofu, or stir-fried vegetables. This homemade sauce is a versatile addition to your Asian cooking repertoire, offering a delightful alternative to store-bought versions.
Ingredients
Scale
Sweet and Sour Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger until well blended.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Prepare Slurry: In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, creating a slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Thicken Sauce: Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, then continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool slightly before serving. Use immediately or store for later use.
Notes
- This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Reheat gently over low heat before using to maintain texture and flavor.
- Pairs perfectly with fried chicken, pork, tofu, or stir-fried vegetables.
- For a fruitier version, add a splash of pineapple juice during the simmering step.
