Making homemade sweet and sour sauce is a fantastic way to enjoy a fresher, more flavorful version of the store-bought variety! Plus, it’s super easy to make and you can adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking. Here’s a simple recipe:
Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (or orange juice for a slight twist)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for a savory touch)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Instructions:
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Combine the ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using).
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Heat the mixture:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to make sure the sugar dissolves completely and the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
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Thicken the sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Taste and adjust:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or tanginess as needed by adding more sugar or vinegar. If you want it thicker, just add a little more cornstarch slurry (mixed with water).
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Serve:
- Once the sauce has thickened and is smooth, remove from heat.
- Use it as a dipping sauce, drizzle it over fried foods, or toss it with your favorite stir-fries or chicken dishes!
Tips:
- You can add a bit of pineapple chunks for extra texture and flavor if you like.
- If you prefer a spicy version, add a bit of chili paste or sriracha for some heat.
- You can store this sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This homemade sweet and sour sauce is definitely better than the store-bought kind because it’s fresh, customizable, and free of preservatives. Enjoy!