Chinese Barbecue Sauce
A rich and savory Chinese Barbecue Sauce with a hint of sweetness and spice, perfect for glazing spareribs or chicken. Its balanced flavors of soy, honey, ginger, and brandy create a delicious marinade or finishing glaze that adds depth and umami to grilled or roasted dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl or saucepan.
- Use as a marinade or glaze for spareribs or chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the brandy with a dark beer or more soy sauce if you're avoiding alcohol. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar. Fresh ginger will provide a more vibrant flavor than dried; however, if that's all you have, use half the amount. This sauce also works well as a glaze for grilled vegetables, such as those found in Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese Barbecue Sauce is perfect as a marinade or glaze for spareribs or chicken, enhancing their flavor with a sweet and savory profile. Serve the glazed meat alongside steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Broccoli Stir-Fry or Teriyaki Marinade Sauce for a delicious spread that complements the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays, then transferring the cubes to a freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove, stirring until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 131 calories, with 1g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2055mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this barbecue sauce in advance?
Yes, this sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Just give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle.
Is this sauce suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Chinese Barbecue Sauce can easily be made vegan by replacing honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for vegan recipes.
What dishes can I use this sauce with?
This versatile sauce is not just limited to spareribs or chicken; it can also be used on grilled tofu, vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for spring rolls. It enhances the flavor of various dishes, making it a great addition to any meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).