Spice up your life (and your meals!) with this vibrant, homemade sweet chilli sauce. Forget the store-bought versions packed with preservatives and artificial ingredients. This recipe is incredibly easy, uses fresh ingredients, and lets you control the level of sweetness and heat to your exact liking. Perfect for dipping spring rolls, stir-fries, or as a marinade for chicken or tofu, this healthy sweet chilli sauce is a delicious addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to discover one of the best recipes you'll ever make!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red chillies (adjust to your spice preference – a mix of red and green adds visual appeal)
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- ¼ cup water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
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Prepare the chillies: Wash the chillies thoroughly. If you prefer a smoother sauce, remove the seeds and membranes. If you like it extra fiery, leave them in! Roughly chop the chillies.
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Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the chopped chillies, vinegar, brown sugar, water, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using).
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Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chillies are soft and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Blend the sauce (optional): If you prefer a smoother consistency, carefully transfer the sauce to a blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids; vent the lid to prevent pressure build-up.
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Cool and store: Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Sweet Chilli Sauce:
- Adjust the sweetness and heat: This recipe is easily customizable. Add more or less sugar to control the sweetness, and adjust the number of chillies to your preferred level of heat. Start with fewer chillies and add more gradually if you're unsure.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic provide the best flavor.
- Don't over-blend: If blending, blend just until you reach your desired consistency. A little texture can add to the overall experience.
- Make it your own: Experiment with different types of vinegar (like rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar) for a unique flavor profile. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also amp up the heat.
Delicious Variations:
- Honey Sweet Chilli Sauce: Replace brown sugar with an equal amount of honey for a slightly different sweetness.
- Spicy Sweet Chilli Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Mango Sweet Chilli Sauce: Add ½ cup of finely diced mango during the simmering process for a tropical twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients and quantities used. For a more accurate nutritional analysis, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients. However, generally, you can expect this sauce to be relatively low in calories and fat, and a good source of vitamins and antioxidants from the chillies.
This homemade sweet chilli sauce is a quick dinner idea that is both easy and healthy. Enjoy the satisfaction of making a delicious and healthy condiment from scratch! It's perfect for adding zest to your healthy meals. Give this amazing recipe a try and elevate your culinary creations!