Classic Sweet and Sour Sauce

Name: Classic Sweet and Sour Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned); 1/3 cup rice vinegar; 1/2 cup ketchup; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium); 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water

15 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

Classic Sweet and Sour Sauce

A tangy and sweet sauce perfect for dipping egg rolls or drizzling over your favourite dishes.

Prep

5 min

Cook

10 min

Total

15 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Sweet and sour sauce is a beloved condiment in many cuisines, known for its perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness. Often served with egg rolls, chicken, or stir-fries, this versatile sauce can enhance a variety of dishes. Creating your own sweet and sour sauce at home is simple and allows you to customize the flavours to your liking. Whether you prefer it more tangy or sweet, this recipe provides a solid base that you can adjust as desired.

Ingredients

Servings

Sweet and Sour Sauce

Instructions

Combine liquids

In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Whisk until well blended.

Pro tip: Use a whisk to ensure the sugar fully dissolves.

Heat mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: Avoid boiling to maintain the sauce's clarity.

Prepare cornstarch slurry

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth.

Pro tip: Ensure no lumps remain in the slurry for a smooth sauce.

Thicken sauce

Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce, whisking continuously. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Pro tip: The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Adjust seasoning

Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more sugar or vinegar, if needed.

Pro tip: A small squeeze of lemon can enhance the tanginess.

Cool and store

Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro tip: For a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine sieve before cooling.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use fresh pineapple juice for a more authentic taste.</li><li>Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the sugar.</li><li>Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.</li><li>Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Sweet and sour sauce is best served fresh, but it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for convenience. Pair it with crispy egg rolls, grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce for fried wontons. For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce in small portions. Defrost in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring well before serving.