Description
Spicy homemade sweet chili sauce delivers a tangy explosion of flavor that dances across your palate. Crafted with fresh ingredients and simple techniques, this sauce promises to elevate your culinary creations with its irresistible zest.
Ingredients
Scale
Peppers and Spices:
- 8 to 10 red chili peppers
- 4 to 5 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
Sweeteners and Liquids:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce
Thickening Agents:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (30 grams / 1 ounce)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients in a medium saucepan, blending water, sugar, rice vinegar, sambal oelek, minced garlic, fish sauce, and salt into a harmonious mixture.
- Activate the stovetop to medium heat, stirring the liquid concoction until sugar completely dissolves and creates a smooth base.
- Create a cornstarch binding agent by whisking cornstarch with water in a separate small bowl until completely integrated.
- Gradually introduce the cornstarch slurry into the simmering liquid, continuously stirring to ensure uniform thickening and prevent clumping.
- Lower the temperature and allow the sauce to gently simmer for approximately 5 minutes, monitoring its consistency as it transforms into a rich, glossy condiment.
- Extinguish the heat and permit the sweet chili sauce to cool naturally at room temperature for several minutes.
- Transfer the finished sauce into a clean glass jar, sealing tightly and refrigerating to preserve its vibrant flavors and optimal texture.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing sambal oelek for personalized heat intensity.
- Create a vegetarian version by replacing fish sauce with soy sauce or liquid aminos for similar umami depth.
- Enhance flavor complexity by adding a splash of lime juice or ginger during initial cooking for brighter, more vibrant taste profile.
- Store sauce in an airtight container for up to two weeks in refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and develop richer undertones.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 86 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg