Chinese Sweet And Sour Sauce
Sweet and tangy, this Chinese-inspired sauce combines sugar, soy, vinegar, and ketchup for a versatile complement to stir-fries, meats, or vegetables, adding vibrant flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, soy sauce, white wine, vinegar, and ketchup in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Dissolve cornstarch in water; add to the sauce.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until the sauce has thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or using a dark soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply increase the cornstarch slightly. This sauce is versatile and can also be used as a glaze for chicken or pork. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sweet and sour sauce over fried rice or alongside dishes like Ham And Broccoli Stir-Fry for a delightful contrast. It also pairs beautifully with crispy spring rolls or Baked Wontons for dipping. This sauce is a perfect addition to a variety of Chinese recipes, enhancing the flavors of meats and vegetables alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sweet and sour sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Sweet And Sour Sauce contains roughly 97 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% 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 sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet and sour sauce in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving. It can be made a day or two ahead, which allows the flavors to meld nicely.
Is this sauce suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This sweet and sour sauce is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that the soy sauce you use is labeled vegan, as some brands may contain additives.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Alternatively, you might try using honey or agave syrup as a sweetener for a different flavor profile.
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).