Are you tired of bland, boring sauces that do nothing for your taste buds? Get ready to revolutionize your cooking with this mind-blowing Spicy Sweet and Sour Sauce that promises to take your dishes from zero to hero in just minutes! This Asian-inspired condiment is not just a sauce—it's a culinary magic potion that will elevate everything from stir-fries to dipping appetizers, delivering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and fiery flavors that will make your mouth water and your dinner guests beg for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sugar and vinegar. Whisk them together until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Add the ketchup and soy sauce to the sugar and vinegar mixture. Continue whisking until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. This will help to thicken the sauce later.
- Pour the sauce mixture into a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the sauce begins to simmer, add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan while stirring continuously. This will help to thicken the sauce as it cooks.
- Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes to add heat. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
- Continue to cook the sauce for about 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Once the sauce is thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before using.
- Transfer the spicy sweet and sour sauce to a clean jar or container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips
- Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are completely integrated for a smooth, consistent sauce.
- Control the Heat: Adjust red pepper flakes to match your spice tolerance—start small and add more if needed.
- Cornstarch Technique: Always mix cornstarch with cold water first to prevent lumps in your sauce.
- Low and Slow: Simmer the sauce gently to develop deeper flavors and achieve the right consistency.
- Storage Hack: This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a perfect meal prep condiment.
- Versatility is Key: Use this sauce not just as a dip, but as a glaze for meats, a stir-fry sauce, or a dressing base.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 100g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
