Sweet and sour sauces are a popular category of sauces that balance sweetness with acidity, often used in Chinese cuisine and other Asian-inspired dishes. Here are a few types of sweet and sour sauces, ranging from traditional to creative variations:
Classic Chinese Sweet and Sour Sauce
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup rice vinegar or white vinegar
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1/2 cup ketchup
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Instructions:
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In a saucepan, combine vinegar, ketchup, sugar, and soy sauce.
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Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
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Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
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Simmer until thickened and glossy.
Use with: Chicken, pork, tofu, or as a dip for spring rolls.
Pineapple Sweet and Sour Sauce
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup pineapple juice
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1/4 cup rice vinegar
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp ketchup
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1 tsp soy sauce
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1 tsp cornstarch (plus water)
Instructions:
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Mix all ingredients except cornstarch in a pan and bring to a simmer.
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Add cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened.
Use with: Stir-fried vegetables, shrimp, or grilled chicken.
Spicy Sweet and Sour Sauce
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
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1/2 cup honey or sugar
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2 tbsp ketchup
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1 tbsp chili garlic sauce or Sriracha
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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Cornstarch slurry to thicken
Use with: Fried chicken, meatballs, or crispy tofu for a kick.
Tamarind Sweet and Sour Sauce (Southeast Asian Style)
Ingredients:
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1/4 cup tamarind paste
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2 tbsp palm sugar or brown sugar
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2 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce
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1/4 cup water
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Optional chili flakes for heat
Use with: Grilled meats, fried fish, or Thai spring rolls.