How To Make Sweet And Sour Sauce Recipe

BySoha

Sweet and sour sauce is a masterclass in balance,bright acidity, controlled sweetness, and a glossy finish that coats without overpowering. When made properly at home, it is far more refined than bottled versions, with clean flavors and precise texture. This chef-developed recipe focuses on harmony and technique, producing a versatile sauce suitable for both classic Asian dishes and modern fusion cooking.

Ingredients List

  • Tomato ketchup
  • Rice vinegar
  • Pineapple juice
  • Brown sugar
  • Soy sauce
  • Cornstarch
  • Water
  • Garlic, finely minced
  • Fresh ginger, finely grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

sweet and sour sauce
Build the flavor base

In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Introduce aromatics

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the saucepan. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.

Prepare the thickener

In a separate bowl, whisk cornstarch with water until completely smooth. This prevents lumps and ensures a glossy finish.

Thicken with control

Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking continuously. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes shiny.

Refine and finish

Lower the heat and simmer briefly to remove any raw starch flavor. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed, then remove from heat.

Cook Time

Total: 15 minutes
Prep: 5 minutes
Bake: 10 minutes

Servings

Makes approximately 1½ cups of sauce

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 95
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Sodium: 310 mg

Storage Instructions

Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 10 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave, stirring to restore consistency.

Suggestions

Use this sweet and sour sauce for stir-fries, battered chicken, shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables. It also works well as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or as a glaze for grilled meats. For extra depth, add a small splash of pineapple juice during reheating.

Seasonal Relevance

This sauce is suitable year-round, but its bright, fruity acidity makes it especially appealing during warmer months when lighter, vibrant flavors are preferred.

Conclusion

Mastering sweet and sour sauce at home gives you full control over balance, texture, and quality. This recipe delivers a clean, restaurant-level result with dependable consistency and adaptable flavor. Once prepared from scratch, it becomes an essential component in both everyday cooking and elevated dishes.

How To Make Sweet And Sour Sauce Recipe
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How To Make Sweet And Sour Sauce Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

95

kcal
Total time

15

minutes

This Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe is a perfectly balanced blend of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Made from scratch with fresh ingredients, it delivers a glossy, restaurant-quality sauce ideal for stir-fries, chicken, shrimp, tofu, and as a dipping sauce for appetizers.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup tomato ketchup

  • ¼ cup rice vinegar

  • ¼ cup pineapple juice

  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 2 tablespoons water

  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced

  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated

Directions

  • In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Whisk until smooth.
  • Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk cornstarch with water until smooth to make a slurry.
  • Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  • Simmer briefly to remove any raw starch flavor. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed. Remove from heat and serve.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Resting the sauce for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors.
  • Adjust the amount of sugar or vinegar to suit your taste.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat, stirring to maintain consistency.

FAQs

Why is my sweet and sour sauce too thick?
This usually means too much cornstarch was added. Thin the sauce gradually with water or pineapple juice while reheating.

Can I make this sauce without pineapple juice?
Yes, orange juice or apple juice can be used, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Is this sauce suitable for vegetarian dishes?
Absolutely. It pairs exceptionally well with tofu, mushrooms, and mixed vegetables, making it ideal for plant-based meals.

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