Are you ready to transform your ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences? Our Thai Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce is the secret weapon that will elevate everything from spring rolls to grilled meats with its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. This restaurant-quality sauce is not just a condiment – it's a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance and your guests beg for your cooking secrets!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp chili flakes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp water (for cornstarch mixture)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring them precisely and having them ready near your cooking station.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tsp water to create a smooth cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
- Take a medium saucepan and add sugar, vinegar, and 1/4 cup water. Place over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture continuously until sugar completely dissolves, ensuring no granules remain at the bottom of the pan.
- Add minced garlic and chili flakes to the liquid, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly pour the prepared cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer to a clean glass jar or container and refrigerate. The sauce can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the most vibrant flavor – pre-minced garlic from a jar can taste flat and less aromatic.
- Control the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili flakes. For a milder sauce, reduce to 1 tablespoon; for extra spiciness, increase to 3 tablespoons.
- Whisk the cornstarch slurry thoroughly to prevent any lumps, which can make your sauce grainy.
- Watch the sauce carefully while simmering to prevent burning – medium heat is key to developing rich flavors without scorching.
- Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing, as it will continue to thicken and develop deeper flavors.
- Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator to maintain maximum freshness and flavor intensity.
- For best results, let the sauce sit for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to fully meld together.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
