Sweet chili sauce is a sweet and spicy sauce that is made with red chilies, sugar, vinegar, and garlic. Learn how to make your own version at home using fresh red chili peppers, creating a perfect dip for many Filipino favorites!
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What is sweet chili sauce?
Sweet chili sauce-also known as Thai sweet chili sauce-is a sweet and spicy condiment made with red chili peppers, sugar, vinegar, and garlic. This thick, bright red-orange sauce is widely used in Filipino cuisine as a condiment or a cooking ingredient.
How to make sweet chili sauce
Making a homemade version using fresh red chili peppers is easy, healthier, and far more delicious than store-bought alternatives.
Step 1: Combine ingredients
Combine 1 cup of red chilies, 6 garlic cloves, ¾ cup sugar, ½ cup vinegar, ¾ cup water, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt (use less for table salt) in a saucepan. Stir to combine.
Step 2: Boil and thicken
Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes, occasionally stirring. In a separate bowl, dissolve a tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water, then add it in.
Let the sauce thicken slightly for about a minute, then turn off the heat. Taste and adjust as needed.
Allow it to cool to room temperature. The sauce will thicken as it cools. Refrigerate for up to a month or freeze it for a longer shelf life.
Recipe FAQs
Unlike chili garlic oil, sweet chili sauces are usually sweet and slightly tangy. The degree of spiciness may vary from mild to medium, depending on the types of chilies used. The sweetness typically comes from sugar, while the tanginess comes from vinegar. Depending on the ingredients used, some varieties may have a hint of fruity flavor.
According to WebMD, chili peppers contain capsaicin, known for its pain-relieving properties and potential aid in weight loss. MedicineNet suggests that it can boost metabolism and promote weight loss through thermogenesis, the body's heat-production process responsible for reactions like redness and sweating.
Healthline indicates that garlic is nutrient-rich with numerous health benefits due to its sulfur compounds. These benefits include boosting immunity, improving heart health and bone strength, and potential protective effects against cognitive decline, although some areas require further research.
Vinegar may also regulate blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss, as noted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. However, commercially sold varieties are often high in sugar and sodium, leading to health issues like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Check the nutrition information and ingredients of your specific brand. A homemade version can be made with healthier ingredients, such as honey or maple syrup, and can be modified to meet specific dietary needs.
Sweet chili sauce can be part of a healthy diet if consumed in moderation. While some ingredients have potential health benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone. Consulting with a medical professional is always advisable.
Sweet chili sauce is available in Asian grocery stores and some well-stocked supermarkets. Some popular brands are Mae Ploy, Thai Kitchen, and Maggi. You can also find it at Trader Joe's or online retailers like Amazon or Walmart.
Store an unopened bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, it will last several months in the refrigerator. Check the expiration date and specific storage instructions on the label, as they may vary depending on the brand.
The shelf life of homemade sweet chili sauce varies depending on the recipe and how it is stored. It can typically last for several weeks to a few months in the refrigerator. Allow the sauce to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
Sugar and vinegar extend the shelf life by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause spoilage. However, homemade sauces may not last as long as commercial ones due to the lack of preservatives. Use your best judgment in assessing the freshness and safety of homemade food products.
Explore ways to use your sweet chili sauce
Though originally from Thailand, sweet chili sauce has been incorporated into Filipino cuisine over time. Here are some examples:
- Fried foods: The sauce complements the savory and crispy texture of fried foods like Fried Fish, Fried Calamari, Lumpiang Shanghai, Shrimp Lumpia, Dynamite Lumpia, Tortang Talong, and street foods like fish or squid balls.
- Grilled or roasted foods: Used as a glaze or dipping sauce for Lechon Manok, Inihaw na Manok, and other grilled/roasted foods like shrimp or fish.
- Silog breakfasts: Pairs well with some silog breakfasts with Sinangag, itlog, and proteins such as fried bangus (Bangsilog) and fried chicken (Chicksilog).
- Sweet and Sour: Sweet chili sauce can be used for this sweet and tangy stir-fry with chicken, pork, or fish.
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📖 Recipe
How to Make Sweet Chili Sauce
Equipment
- Blender or food processor (optional)
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 cup red chili peppers minced (see note)
- 6 garlic cloves minced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vinegar
- ¾ cup water
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (use half for table salt) adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water
Instructions
- Combine red chilies, garlic, sugar, vinegar, and water in a saucepan. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, occasionally stirring.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water, and add it in.
- Let the sauce thicken slightly for about a minute, then turn off the heat. Taste the sauce and adjust as needed.
Mark says
I use this sauce on everything! I never tried making it at home though. I’ll definitely try to make it at home. Thank you.
Nora Rey says
That's awesome! Homemade sweet chili sauce is a fun and delicious project. Hope you'll give it a try!
Andrea says
You don’t say how much corn starch
Nora Reyes says
Hi Andrea,
Thanks for pointing that out! The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and I've updated it to reflect this. Your sharp eye is greatly appreciated. Thanks again for your help!