Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of this Lumpia Dipping Sauce?
This sauce features a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, enhanced with the warmth of garlic and a subtle heat from crushed red pepper flakes.
What dishes pair well with this tangy sweet and sour sauce?
While designed for lumpia, it also pairs excellently with wontons, fried rice, dim sum, and other savory Asian-inspired dishes.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The sauce is made from water, sugar, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, ketchup, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes.
How long does it take to thicken the sauce?
Once the mixture begins to boil, it takes approximately 2-3 minutes of constant stirring to reach the desired thickness.
What type of vinegar is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar to provide its signature tang.
How much garlic is needed?
One finely minced garlic clove is required for this recipe.
Is the sauce spicy?
It has a hint of heat provided by 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, though it remains primarily sweet and tangy.
What is the role of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch acts as the thickening agent for the sauce; it must be whisked into the cold mixture before heating to avoid lumps.
How should the sauce be cooled?
After removing the saucepan from the heat, allow the sauce to cool completely to room temperature before serving.
What size saucepan is best for this recipe?
A 2-quart saucepan is recommended for combining and heating the ingredients.
Does this sauce contain any fat?
According to the nutritional information provided, this sauce contains 0g of fat.
How many calories are in a serving?
One serving of this sauce contains 392 calories.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of sugar, resulting in 90g of sugar per serving.
Is there ketchup in this sweet and sour sauce?
Yes, one tablespoon of ketchup is included to help balance the flavor and color.
What is the inspiration behind this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by a love for Filipino cuisine and the culinary treasures of Southern California.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 7 total ingredients required for this dipping sauce.
Do I need to stir the sauce while it cooks?
Yes, you should continue to stir the mixture constantly with a whisk while it is over medium heat.
Can I serve this with fried rice?
Absolutely, this sauce is explicitly recommended as a complement for fried rice.
How much water is used in the base?
The base of the sauce starts with 1/2 cup of water.
What is the carbohydrate count for this sauce?
The sauce contains 98g of carbohydrates per serving.
Is there any protein in this sauce?
The sauce contains a minimal amount of protein, specifically 1g.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to combine water, sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, ketchup, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan.
How do I ensure there are no lumps in the sauce?
By whisking the mixture thoroughly before heating, you ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved and no lumps remain.
Is this sauce considered a condiment?
Yes, it is categorized as a condiment and an essential Asian-inspired dipping sauce.
Is there any fiber in this recipe?
No, the nutritional profile indicates 0g of fiber.
What heat setting should be used for cooking?
The sauce should be cooked over medium heat.
Is this a complex recipe to follow?
No, it is tagged as an 'easy recipe' with simple steps and standard kitchen ingredients.
Can I use this for wontons?
Yes, it is highly recommended as a dipping sauce for wontons.
How much cornstarch is needed?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
What is the primary vegetable ingredient added for flavor?
Finely minced garlic is the primary fresh vegetable used to add warmth and depth to the sauce.