Linda’s Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe
This delightful Sweet and Sour Sauce, a treasured recipe passed down from my mother-in-law, has quickly become a family favorite. The sauce is a versatile gem that pairs beautifully with meatballs, leftover cooked chicken, roast pork, and even chopped-up hotdogs. If you’re like my husband, you might find it irresistible to spoon over a helping of mashed potatoes. This quick and easy sauce is not only simple to make but also a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch mixture)
Instructions
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Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, pour 1 cup of water and 1 cup of white sugar. Stir well to combine and set the saucepan over medium heat.
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Bring to a Boil: Heat the mixture until it begins to boil, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
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Add the Ketchup: Once the mixture has come to a boil, add 1/2 cup of ketchup. Stir the sauce well and allow it to return to a boil.
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Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir until the cornstarch is completely dissolved, creating a smooth slurry.
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Thicken the Sauce: Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling sauce, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
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Remove from Heat: Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat. Keep stirring for a few moments to ensure it reaches the perfect consistency.
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Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, reduce the amount of cornstarch in the recipe. For a thicker sauce, you can use the full amount specified.
Notes
- This sauce is intended to be fairly thick, but it can be adjusted according to your preference.
- It’s perfect as a topping for meatballs or as a flavorful dip for a variety of dishes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Linda’s Sweet and Sour Sauce over meatballs for a classic favorite.
- Try it with leftover cooked chicken or roast pork for a delicious and quick meal.
- For a fun twist, drizzle it over chopped-up hotdogs.
- Pair it with mashed potatoes to create a hearty and satisfying dish.
Enjoy this easy and flavorful Sweet and Sour Sauce with your family, and watch it become a cherished part of your meal planning! 🌟🍽️