Best Sweet and Sour Sauce
Sweet and sour sauce is a beloved classic in many cuisines, especially in Asian-inspired dishes. This Best Sweet and Sour Sauce recipe balances sweetness and tanginess perfectly, delivering a vibrant and delicious flavor that can transform any meal. Whether you’re drizzling it over crispy chicken, using it as a dipping sauce for egg rolls, or tossing it with stir-fried veggies, this sauce is incredibly versatile. With just a few pantry staples and under 10 minutes, you can create a sauce that's far superior to store-bought versions, without any preservatives or artificial flavors. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, sour, savory, and just a hint of umami!
Materials
- ½ cup white sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that signature glossy syrupy texture.
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar: Provides the tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
- ¼ cup ketchup: Adds depth and a bit of color giving the sauce its classic reddish hue.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Infuses the sauce with a savory umami-rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle hint of garlic elevating the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a silky consistency.
- ¼ cup water: Combines with the cornstarch to form a slurry that will thicken the sauce without making it lumpy.
Instructions
Mix the Base Ingredients
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir the mixture well to combine, ensuring that the sugar dissolves completely into the liquids. This forms the base of the sweet and sour sauce, with the sugar providing sweetness and the vinegar contributing the sourness.
Heat the Mixture
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture continuously as it heats. You’ll want to stir constantly to prevent the sugar from burning. Keep stirring until the mixture begins to bubble, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
- While the sauce base is heating, prepare the thickening agent. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This slurry will help thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency without any lumps.
Thicken the Sauce
- Once the sauce mixture is bubbling, slowly add the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan while continuing to stir. Stir constantly to ensure the sauce thickens evenly and smoothly. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Cool and Store
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool for a few minutes before serving. If you’re not using it immediately, transfer the sauce to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient option for meal prepping or quick weeknight meals.