Homemade Chinese Sweet and Sour Sauce
This classic Chinese sweet and sour sauce perfectly balances the tang of vinegar, the warmth of sugar, and the savory depth of soy sauce into one glossy, irresistible condiment. Ready in under 10 minutes, it pairs beautifully with spring rolls, dumplings, grilled chicken, or fried rice. Once you try the homemade version, store-bought will never cut it again!
🛒 Ingredients
4 servings
- 8 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons cornstarch
- 6 tablespoons cold water (to dissolve the cornstarch)
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Directions
- 1
Pour 8 tablespoons of water into a small saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- 2
Add the sugar, soy sauce, and tomato paste, stirring continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- 3
Pour in the white vinegar and stir well to combine.
- 4
In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the 6 tablespoons of cold water until lump-free, then slowly stream the slurry into the saucepan while stirring constantly.
- 5
Cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens to a glossy, coating consistency. Serve warm or at room temperature.
💡 Chef's Tip
Swap white vinegar for rice vinegar for a milder, more authentic Asian flavor. A few drops of sesame oil or a pinch of garlic powder stirred in at the end takes this sauce to the next level.
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