Homemade Sweet & Sour Sauce Recipe
Overview
Homemade Sweet & Sour Sauce is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with chunky fruit and savory notes. This recipe yields approximately 3 cups of sauce, ideal for various dishes from stir-fries to dipping sauces. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, including 10 minutes of preparation, it’s a quick and easy option for enhancing your meals.
Ingredients
- 1 can (about 20 oz) crushed pineapple: Adds natural sweetness and texture to the sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Provides the sweet element that balances the sour and savory flavors.
- 1 can (about 14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds a savory depth and texture.
- 1/2 cup vinegar: Gives the sauce its tangy kick.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and texture.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Provides umami richness and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to the desired consistency.
Nutritional Information
- Calories per serving: 500.6
- Fat content: 0.3g
- Saturated fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 635.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 126.1g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 117.2g
- Protein: 2.3g
Directions
-
Prepare Ingredients: Drain the crushed pineapple, reserving the juice, and dice the onions.
-
-
Cooking the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, diced tomatoes, diced onion, soy sauce, ground ginger, and the drained crushed pineapple.
- Simmer the mixture over medium heat for approximately 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.
-
Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with the reserved pineapple juice, stirring until smooth.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the simmering pineapple mixture, stirring continuously.
- Bring the sauce to a boil and cook for about 2 minutes, or until it reaches the desired thickness.
-
Finish and Chill:
- Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Transfer the sauce to a container and refrigerate until cold. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade Sweet & Sour Sauce is incredibly versatile:
- As a Dip: Serve alongside crispy spring rolls or fried wontons.
- With Stir-Fries: Use as a glaze for chicken, shrimp, or tofu stir-fries.
- As a Marinade: Coat meats before grilling or baking for a tangy twist.
- Over Rice: Drizzle over steamed rice or noodles for a quick and flavorful meal.
Storage
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious over time.
Tips for Success
- Consistency: Adjust the amount of cornstarch according to your desired thickness. Add more for a thicker sauce or less for a lighter consistency.
- Flavor Enhancement: For added complexity, consider incorporating a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to customize the sauce to your taste.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until needed. It can also be frozen for longer storage, though the texture may slightly change upon thawing.
Conclusion
Homemade Sweet & Sour Sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, perfect for adding a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality sauce right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re dipping, drizzling, or marinating, this sauce is sure to elevate your meals with its delightful combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy experimenting with different dishes and discovering new ways to savor this homemade treat!
