10-Minute Sweet Chili Sauce: Big Flavor, Tiny Budget

Skip the store-bought stuff! This vibrant sweet chili sauce is bursting with flavor and comes together in just 10 minutes using pantry staples. Packed with fresh herbs and a hint of spice, it’s the perfect condiment to elevate any dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1.5 tablespoons minced fresh chilies (adjust based on heat preference)
• 1.5 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the aromatics: Mince the garlic, ginger, and fresh chilies. If using cilantro, chop it finely.
2. Simmer the base: In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, chilies, garlic, ginger, tomato ketchup, salt, and vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce, and cook for an additional minute, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Flavor boost (optional): Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal touch.
5. Cool and store: Let the sauce cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Tips:

• Heat control: For a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membranes from the chilies before mincing.
• Spice it up: Like things extra fiery? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an additional kick.
• Fresh vs. dried: No fresh chilies on hand? Substitute 1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes for the minced fresh chilies.
• Sweetener swap: Don’t have white sugar? Honey or brown sugar can be used in its place (use slightly less due to their higher sweetness).
• Serving suggestions: This versatile sauce is perfect for dipping spring rolls, dumplings, and vegetable skewers. Drizzle it over grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a sweet and spicy glaze.

Enjoy this homemade sweet chili sauce! With its vibrant color, bold flavors, and budget-friendly ingredients, it’s sure to become a new favorite condiment.