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Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe


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4.3 from 22 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cup (about 1 serving)

Description

This sweet and sour sauce recipe offers a perfectly balanced blend of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Made with pineapple juice, brown sugar, and a touch of vinegar, it’s an ideal dipping sauce or glaze for a variety of dishes such as chicken, pork, or vegetables. Ready in just 10 minutes, this versatile and easy-to-make sauce enhances your meals with a vibrant taste and smooth texture.


Ingredients

Liquid Ingredients

  • 1 cup pineapple juice (unsweetened or water)
  • ½ cup tomato ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • ¼ cup vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons water

Dry Ingredients

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the cornstarch and water until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Set this slurry aside as it will thicken your sauce later.
  2. Combine the Base Ingredients: Pour the pineapple juice into a medium saucepan. Add the brown sugar, tomato ketchup, soy sauce, and salt. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
  3. Dissolve Sugar and Salt: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir continuously until the brown sugar and salt dissolve completely into the mixture, creating a uniform base.
  4. Add Vinegar and Simmer: Pour in the vinegar and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about one minute without stirring, letting the flavors meld together.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry again to recombine and then slowly add it to the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to a smooth, dipping sauce consistency.

Notes

  • Use unsweetened pineapple juice for a balanced sweetness; water can be substituted for a milder taste.
  • Adjust the sugar amount based on your desired sweetness level.
  • This sauce pairs well with fried or grilled meats, as well as steamed vegetables.
  • Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain texture.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian Fusion