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    Home » Ingredient Guides

    How to Make Sweet Chili Sauce

    Published: Apr 2, 2023 by Nora Reyes · This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. · 4 Comments

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    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!

    Sweet chili sauce in a bowl.
    Sweet Chili Sauce (Mae Ploy brand)
    Jump to:
    • What is sweet chili sauce?
    • How to make sweet chili sauce
    • Recipe FAQs
    • Explore ways to use your sweet chili sauce
    • Other ingredient guides you may like
    • 📖 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    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.

    A bottle of store-bought sweet chili sauce.

    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.

    Homemade sweet chili sauce ingredients in a saucepan.

    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.

    Sweet chili sauce simmering in a saucepan.

    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.

    Homemade sweet chili sauce in a bowl.
    Homemade sweet chili sauce

    Recipe FAQs

    What does sweet chili sauce taste like?

    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.

    Is sweet chili sauce healthy?

    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.

    Where to buy sweet chili sauce?

    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.

    How do i store sweet chili sauce?

    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.
    Lumpiang Shanghai (Fried Spring Roll) dipped in sweet chili sauce.

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      Soy Sauce: A Filipino Kitchen Staple
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    📖 Recipe

    Sweet chili sauce in a bowl scooped by a spoon.

    How to Make Sweet Chili Sauce

    Learn how to make homemade sweet chili sauce using fresh red chili peppers.
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: Asian, Filipino, Thai
    Diet: Gluten Free
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 8 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 13 minutes minutes
    Servings: 16
    Calories: 43kcal
    Author: Nora Rey
    Cost: $3-$5

    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
    US Customary - Metric

    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.

    Notes

    I prefer to use mild peppers such as red bell peppers or red Korean chili peppers for flavor and color, and add a touch of heat from red bird's eye chilies, red Fresno peppers or red jalapeño peppers.
    Choose the type of pepper based on your personal preference. Mince the peppers almost to a paste. You can also use a blender or food processor. Dried red pepper flakes, gochugaru (Korean chili powder), sambal oelek, or chili garlic paste can also be used.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2tablespoonsCalories: 43kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 0.2gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.02gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.003gSodium: 62mgPotassium: 35mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 89IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 0.1mg
    Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided here is solely for informational purposes. I am not a certified nutritionist, and this data hasn't been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or any other authority. It shouldn't be seen as health or nutrition advice. The figures are estimates calculated from various food composition databases and might vary based on product types, brands, natural variations in produce, and ingredient processing methods. Individual results may differ.
    Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @recipesbynora or tag #RecipesByNora!

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    About the author

    Hi, I'm Nora! 

    Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Mark

      May 01, 2023 at 9:22 am

      5 stars
      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.

      Reply
      • Nora Rey

        July 23, 2023 at 3:32 am

        That's awesome! Homemade sweet chili sauce is a fun and delicious project. Hope you'll give it a try!

        Reply
        • Andrea

          January 28, 2024 at 6:47 pm

          You don’t say how much corn starch

          Reply
          • Nora Reyes

            February 04, 2024 at 12:50 am

            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!

            Reply
    5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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