Tropical Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with this delightful Tropical Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce! Perfectly balanced with the sweetness of pineapple preserves, zesty vinegar, and a hint of soy sauce, this sauce adds a burst of flavor to your favorite crispy Asian appetizers. Whether you're enjoying egg rolls, crab rangoon, or spring rolls, this sauce will elevate them to new heights. Its vibrant taste and velvety texture will impress your guests and leave them craving more. Make it ahead of time and serve it chilled or at room temperature for the perfect dipping experience!
12
Servings
12.5
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pineapple preserves
1/2 cup (none)
Vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
Pineapple juice
2 tablespoons (none)
Soy sauce
2 teaspoons (none)
Ketchup
2 teaspoons (none)
Cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Mild paprika
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a small saucepan, add the pineapple preserves and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, cornstarch, and mild paprika until smooth.
3
Gradually pour the mixture into the saucepan with the melted pineapple preserves, stirring continuously to combine.
4
Continue to cook on low heat until the sauce thickens slightly and is well blended, about 3-5 minutes.
5
Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before serving. For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before use.
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
3g
Carbs
0g
Protein
0g
Fiber
2.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tropical Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce?
It is a vibrant, velvety sauce made with pineapple preserves, vinegar, and soy sauce, designed to accompany Asian-style appetizers.
What appetizers go best with this sauce?
This sauce is perfect for egg rolls, crab rangoon, spring rolls, and crispy potstickers.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 12.5 calories.
Is this dipping sauce vegan?
Yes, the ingredients listed are typically vegan, though you should check your specific brand of ketchup and preserves.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it is recommended to make it ahead of time and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How should I store leftover sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as the cornstarch can cause the texture to become spongy or separate once thawed.
What type of vinegar should I use?
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar works best to provide the necessary zesty tang.
Is the sauce spicy?
No, it uses mild paprika for color and flavor, making it a mild and family-friendly sauce.
How do I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?
You can simmer it for a few extra minutes or add a tiny amount of additional cornstarch mixed with water.
What can I use if I don't have pineapple preserves?
Apricot preserves or orange marmalade can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will change slightly.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure you use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Can I use fresh pineapple juice?
Yes, fresh pineapple juice works perfectly and provides a bright, tropical flavor.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce its signature velvety texture.
Can I serve this sauce hot?
While it can be served warm, it is traditionally served at room temperature or chilled for the best dipping experience.
Does this sauce contain fat?
No, this recipe is fat-free.
What gives the sauce its red color?
The combination of ketchup and mild paprika provides the vibrant reddish-orange hue.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double all the ingredients if you are serving a larger crowd.
Can I use this as a glaze for meat?
Absolutely! It works wonderfully as a glaze for grilled chicken, shrimp, or pork.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
You can use liquid aminos or tamari if you prefer a soy-free or gluten-free alternative.
How much sugar is in each serving?
There are 2.5 grams of sugar per serving.
Can I use a different type of juice?
Orange juice or mango nectar can be used for a different tropical twist.
What equipment do I need?
You only need a small saucepan, a whisk, and a small mixing bowl.
Is this sauce high in sodium?
The sodium content is relatively low, primarily coming from the two teaspoons of soy sauce used in the entire batch.
Why do I need to whisk the ingredients before adding them to the preserves?
Whisking the cornstarch into the liquids first prevents lumps from forming when added to the heat.
Can I add red pepper flakes for heat?
Yes, if you prefer a 'sweet and spicy' sauce, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
What kind of paprika is best?
Mild sweet paprika is recommended to keep the sauce balanced and not overly smoky or hot.
Does it contain fiber?
No, this dipping sauce contains 0 grams of fiber.
How long should I cook the sauce?
Cook on low heat for 3-5 minutes once all ingredients are combined until it thickens slightly.