Classic Sweet and Sour Sauce
Elevate your dipping experience with our Classic Sweet and Sour Sauce! Crafted to perfection, this sauce features a harmonious blend of tangy white vinegar, rich tomato ketchup, and a hint of saltiness from soy sauce. Perfectly balanced, it pairs excellently with spring rolls, potstickers, and crispy chicken. Say goodbye to bottled versions and experience the homemade goodness that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant, minus the need for pineapple juice. With a simple preparation process, this sauce is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Try it today and bring the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
White vinegar
3 tablespoons (None)
Sugar
3 tablespoons (None)
Tomato sauce (ketchup)
3 tablespoons (None)
Water
3 tablespoons (None)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Soy sauce
2 teaspoons (None)
Cornflour
1 1/2 teaspoons (Mixed with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry)
Instructions
1
In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, sugar, tomato sauce (ketchup), water, salt, and soy sauce.
2
Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves.
3
Once the mixture begins to simmer, mix the cornflour with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then add it to the saucepan.
4
Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
5
Remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Sweet and Sour Sauce?
It is a tangy and sweet condiment common in Chinese cuisine, made with vinegar, sugar, and ketchup.
Does this recipe require pineapple juice?
No, this specific recipe is crafted to deliver a classic restaurant-style flavor without the need for pineapple juice.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include white vinegar, sugar, tomato ketchup, water, salt, soy sauce, and cornflour.
How do I thicken the sauce?
The sauce is thickened by adding a slurry made of cornflour and water once the mixture begins to simmer.
How long does this homemade sauce last?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
What dishes pair well with this sauce?
It pairs excellently with spring rolls, potstickers, and crispy chicken.
Can I use this as a dipping sauce?
Yes, its balanced flavor makes it an ideal dipping sauce for various appetizers.
How do I store the sauce?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator after it has cooled completely.
What is a cornflour slurry?
A slurry is a mixture of cornflour and a small amount of liquid (water) used to thicken sauces without creating lumps.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, though it may slightly change the color and give the sauce a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It depends on the soy sauce used. To make it gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free alternative.
How do I make the sauce glossy?
The addition of the cornflour slurry and cooking for 2-3 minutes helps the sauce achieve a glossy finish.
Can I substitute the white vinegar?
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used, though white vinegar provides the most traditional sharp tang.
How long does it take to cook?
The cooking process is very quick, typically taking only about 5 to 10 minutes total.
Can I make this sauce spicy?
Yes, you can add a pinch of red chili flakes or a small amount of sriracha to give it a spicy kick.
Is this sauce vegan?
The ingredients are generally vegan, but check your specific brands of sugar and ketchup to ensure they meet vegan standards.
Why is my sauce too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, you can stir in a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as the cornflour thickener may break down and change the texture upon thawing.
How do I reheat the sauce?
Reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, and add a splash of water if needed.
What is the purpose of the tomato sauce (ketchup)?
Ketchup provides the base flavor, acidity, and the signature reddish color for the sauce.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, all ingredients can be easily doubled or tripled to make a larger batch for parties.
Does it contain MSG?
No, this homemade version contains no added MSG.
What if the sauce is too sweet?
You can balance the sweetness by adding an extra teaspoon of vinegar.
What if the sauce is too sour?
You can add a little more sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until the flavors are balanced to your preference.
Should the sauce be served hot or cold?
It can be served warm as a glaze or cold as a dipping sauce, depending on your preference.
Can I use this for stir-fry?
Absolutely, it works great as a finishing sauce for stir-fried vegetables and proteins.
Is soy sauce necessary?
Soy sauce adds saltiness and a depth of umami that balances the sweet and sour notes.
Do I need to stir it constantly?
Yes, stirring continuously ensures the sugar dissolves properly and the slurry thickens evenly without lumps.
Can I add garlic or ginger?
Yes, adding minced garlic or ginger during the initial heating phase can add extra layers of flavor.
What color should the final sauce be?
The final sauce should be a translucent, glossy reddish-orange color.