Name: Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 cup (8 ounces) water, divided; 3/4 cup (6 ounces) pineapple juice; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup (6 ounces) apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon soy sauce

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Introduction

Sweet and sour sauce is a classic condiment that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. It’s incredibly versatile and elevates dishes like chicken, pork, or vegetables with its glossy, thick texture. Making it from scratch at home is easier than you might think!

The image shows a white ceramic jug filled with thick chocolate sauce that is being poured from a white spoon held by a woman's hand above it. The sauce is smooth, shiny, and rich brown, flowing slowly in a thick ribbon into the jug. The jug is placed on a folded gray cloth that sits on a white marbled surface. The background is softly blurred with a rustic tone, putting focus on the glossy chocolate texture and the clean white jug. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup cornstarch
1 cup (8 ounces) water, divided

3/4 cup (6 ounces) pineapple juice
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup (6 ounces) apple cider vinegar

1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Make the slurry by whisking together the cornstarch and 1/4 cup water in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the pineapple juice, remaining 6 ounces of water, brown sugar, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Whisk until the sugars dissolve.
Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute.
Step 4: Whisk in the cornstarch slurry, continuing to whisk and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 5: Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use immediately or transfer to a jar and refrigerate until ready to use.

Tips & Variations

For a fruitier touch, try adding a few pineapple chunks while simmering the sauce.
If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Use rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a milder, more traditional flavor.

Storage

Store the sweet and sour sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain its smooth texture.

How to Serve

A white ceramic bowl filled with thick, smooth caramel sauce, with a spoon lifting some of the sauce showing its shiny, rich orange-brown color and glossy texture, the sauce dripping slowly back into the bowl. The bowl sits on a folded beige cloth on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, this sauce stores well and can be made several days in advance. Just refrigerate it in a sealed container and reheat before serving.

What dishes pair best with sweet and sour sauce?

This sauce pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, pork, shrimp, and stir-fried vegetables, adding a flavorful touch to many Asian-inspired dishes.