Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce Recipe

Hello, sauce lovers! If you enjoy a balance of sweet and spicy flavors, this Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce will be your new go-to condiment. Perfect for pairing with appetizers, drizzling over meals, or adding to your cooking, this simple yet flavorful sauce is a must-have in every kitchen. Let’s dive into this recipe and learn how to create your own sweet chilli sauce from scratch!

Introduction

Sweet chilli sauce is a popular condiment in Asian cuisine, known for its versatile flavor profile that balances sweetness with a touch of heat. This homemade version is free from preservatives, allowing you to customize the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a family meal, or enhancing your cooking, this sauce is a great addition to your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce, you’ll need:

  • 10 finely chopped red chillies
  • 6 cloves peeled garlic
  • 100ml white wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons corn flour
  • 4 pinches salt
  • 400ml water
  • 200g crushed sugar

Optional: Add red chilli flakes for extra heat if you prefer a spicier sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the Base Ingredients
To make this sweet chilli sauce, combine the red chillies, garlic, vinegar, salt, and water in a blender. Blend these ingredients until smooth. For a spicier sauce, add red chilli flakes to the mixture before blending. The smoothness of the blend ensures an even texture and balanced flavor in the final product.

Step 2: Cook the Sauce
Heat a pan over medium flame and transfer the blended mixture to it. Stir the mixture continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and add the crushed sugar, stirring until it dissolves completely. Once dissolved, mix the corn flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry, and then pour it into the pan while stirring. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency. Remove the pan from the heat and let the sauce cool.

Step 3: Store the Sauce
Transfer the cooled sauce into a clean, sterilized jar. Proper storage ensures that the sauce remains fresh and ready to use whenever you need it. Refrigerate the jar for up to two weeks, ensuring the sauce retains its vibrant flavor and consistency.

Helpful Tips

  • Chilli Variations: Adjust the type of chillies to suit your preferred heat level. Use milder chillies for less spice or add more hot chillies for an intense kick.
  • Storage: Sterilize your jars properly before transferring the sauce to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.
  • Thicker Sauce: For a thicker consistency, increase the amount of corn flour in the recipe. Always mix it with water before adding to avoid lumps.
  • Balanced Flavor: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or tanginess by adding more sugar, salt, or vinegar accordingly.

Cooking Tips

Here are some additional cooking tips to perfect your Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce:

  • Blender Tips: Use a high-powered blender for a smoother consistency. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, pulse the ingredients instead of blending them completely.
  • Simmering: Always cook the sauce over medium flame to prevent burning. Stir regularly to ensure even cooking.
  • Corn Flour Slurry: Adding corn flour directly to the sauce can create lumps. Always mix it with water to make a smooth slurry before pouring it into the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet chilli sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes:

  • Serve it as a dipping sauce for chicken nuggets, spring rolls, or French fries.
  • Drizzle it over grilled or roasted vegetables for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Use it as a marinade for meats like chicken, pork, or shrimp before grilling or baking.
  • Add it to stir-fries or noodle dishes for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Pair it with cheese platters or charcuterie boards as a unique condiment.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile of this Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce per tablespoon:

  • Calories: 25
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 25mg
  • Vitamin A: 2%
  • Vitamin C: 5%

This sauce is low in calories and fat while packing a flavorful punch. Enjoy it guilt-free as an accompaniment to your favorite dishes!

Storage and Leftovers

Proper storage is key to preserving the freshness and flavor of your homemade sauce. Here’s how to do it:

  • Refrigerate: Once the sauce has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight, sterilized jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freezing: If you want to extend its shelf life, portion the sauce into small containers or ice cube trays and freeze. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator before using.

Use the sauce sparingly to enhance your dishes, or enjoy it as a star condiment for snacks and appetizers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the sauce less spicy?
Yes, reduce the number of chillies or use milder varieties to lower the spice level. You can also add more sugar to balance the heat.

What can I use instead of white wine vinegar?
You can substitute it with rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different tangy flavor.

Can I make this sauce sugar-free?
For a sugar-free version, use a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Keep in mind this may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I sterilize jars?
Wash the jars and lids with hot soapy water, then place them in boiling water for 10 minutes. Let them dry completely before filling with the sauce.

Related Recipes

If you love this Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce, try these related recipes:

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make your own Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions. This simple, customizable recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness and spice that’s sure to elevate your dishes. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this versatile sauce!

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