Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
What is Sweet Chili Sauce?
Sweet Chili Sauce is a sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy condiment made from red chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and sugar. It is commonly used as a dipping sauce, marinade, or glaze, adding a delicious flavor to various dishes.
Where It Comes From? / History
Sweet Chili Sauce, also known as Nam Chim Kai in Thai cuisine, originates from Thailand. It has been a staple in Southeast Asian cooking for centuries, widely used in Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese cuisines. Today, it is enjoyed worldwide as a flavorful sauce for appetizers, meats, and seafood.
Taste & Texture Description
- Taste: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and mild heat with a hint of garlic.
- Texture: Smooth, slightly thick, and glossy with tiny bits of red chili flakes and garlic.
How Much Time It Takes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup rice vinegar
- ½ cup sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
- 2 tablespoons red chili flakes or fresh chopped red chilies
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Variations & Substitutions
- Healthier Option: Use honey or coconut sugar instead of white sugar.
- Extra Spicy: Add more chili flakes or fresh red chilies.
- Milder Version: Reduce the chili and add more sugar or honey.
- Vegan Option: Ensure soy sauce is gluten-free or swap with tamari.
How to Make Sweet Chili Sauce
- Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, mix water, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, chili flakes, soy sauce, and salt.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil over medium heat, then lower the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Thicken: Add cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Cool & store: Let it cool before transferring to a jar. Store in the refrigerator.
How to Serve
- Dip for spring rolls, dumplings, or grilled chicken.
- Drizzle over stir-fried noodles, rice bowls, or salads.
- Marinate chicken, shrimp, or tofu before grilling.
- Glaze for roasted meats or seafood.
Pairing Suggestions
- Best with: Fried appetizers, grilled meats, seafood, and Asian dishes.
- Perfect for: Dumplings, chicken wings, spring rolls, and sushi.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezing: Not recommended as it may change texture.
- Reheating: Gently warm in a saucepan if it thickens too much.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh red chilies for a more authentic flavor.
- For a restaurant-style texture, blend the sauce after cooking.
- Pair with bamboo steamers, sushi kits, or dipping bowls (Affiliate links if applicable).
How Many People It Serves
- Yields about 1 cup, serving 8-10 people.
Final Thought
Sweet Chili Sauce is an irresistible balance of sweet and spicy flavors that enhances any dish. Whether you're dipping, drizzling, or marinating, this sauce is a must-have in your kitchen. Try making it at home for an authentic and fresh taste!
FAQ
1. Can I make Sweet Chili Sauce without sugar?
Yes, you can use honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar as a natural sweetener.
2. How long does homemade Sweet Chili Sauce last?
It lasts up to 3 weeks in the fridge when stored properly.
3. Can I use fresh chilies instead of chili flakes?
Absolutely! Use finely chopped fresh red chilies for a more intense flavor.
4. Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Enjoy your homemade Sweet Chili Sauce and let me know how it turned out! 😊
