Speedy Chinese Plum Sauce
A quick and versatile Chinese plum sauce with sweet and tangy flavors, perfect as a glaze or accompaniment for pork, ham, chicken, or spareribs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- On low heat, cook the ingredients until the preserves or mashed plums are melted and well combined.
- Use as a glaze or dipping sauce for pork, ham, chicken, or spareribs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, blend the plum preserves with a bit of water before cooking. If you don't have chutney, consider using a bit of fruit salsa or a mix of spices like ginger and garlic for added depth. Adjust sweetness with more sugar if desired, and try adding a splash of soy sauce for an umami twist. This sauce is versatile and can enhance many dishes, including those found in Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Speedy Chinese Plum Sauce is delicious served as a glaze on grilled meats like pork or chicken. It also works wonderfully as a dipping sauce for appetizers like Chinese Chicken Fingers or spring rolls. For a full meal, serve it alongside steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, such as a quick Sesame Spinach for a fresh, colorful side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave; just heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Speedy Chinese Plum Sauce contains roughly 14 calories, with 0g protein and 3g carbohydrates.
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 use fresh plums instead of plum preserves?
Yes, you can use fresh plums, but you'll need to cook them down to create a sauce-like consistency. Start by pitting and chopping the plums, then simmer them with sugar and vinegar until softened and thickened. This may take longer than using preserves, but it allows for a fresh flavor.
Is this sauce suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this sauce is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any chutney you use is also vegan-friendly. This makes it a great addition to vegan recipes, providing a sweet and tangy flavor that complements many dishes.
How can I adjust the spice level of this sauce?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste, as you can always add more but cannot reduce the heat once added. This can enhance the sauce while balancing the sweetness.
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).