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Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 52 reviews
  • Author: Mariam
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Description

This homemade sweet and sour sauce is a tangy and flavorful condiment perfect for dipping or drizzling over your favorite dishes. Made with pineapple juice, brown sugar, and a blend of classic seasonings, it’s quick to prepare and thickens to a glossy finish that enhances stir-fries, nuggets, and more.


Ingredients

Scale

Sweet and Sour Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup 100% pineapple juice
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water


Instructions

  1. Combine Base Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and white vinegar to create the flavorful base of the sauce.
  2. Simmer and Dissolve Sugar: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat while stirring frequently until the sugar is fully dissolved, ensuring a smooth sauce.
  3. Mix Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry that will thicken the sauce.
  4. Incorporate Slurry and Thicken: Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for 1-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and serve the hot sweet and sour sauce immediately as a dip or drizzle over your favorite dishes.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
  • If a thicker sauce is desired, increase cornstarch slightly but add gradually to avoid over-thickening.
  • Adjust sweetness or tanginess by varying the amount of brown sugar or vinegar according to taste.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.