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    Home » Ingredient Guides

    Sweet Chili Sauce

    Published: Apr 2, 2023 by Nora Rey · This post may contain affiliate links · 1 Comment

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    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    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.

    Sweet chili sauce in a bowl.
    Sweet Chili Sauce (Mae Ploy brand)
    Jump to:
    • What does sweet chili sauce taste like?
    • Is sweet chili sauce healthy?
    • Where to buy and how to store
    • How to make sweet chili sauce
    • Sweet chili sauce in Filipino cuisine
    • Other ingredient guides you may like
    • 📖 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    What does sweet chili sauce taste like?

    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?

    Chili peppers contain capsaicin, known to have pain-relieving properties and may aid in weight loss. Garlic is recognized for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Vinegar helps in digestion and regulates blood sugar levels.

    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. It is advisable to consult with a medical professional before incorporating them into your diet.

    Where to buy and how to store

    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.

    A bottle of store-bought 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.

    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.

    (1)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.

    (2)Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes, occasionally stirring. In a separate bowl, dissolve the 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

    Sweet chili sauce in Filipino cuisine

    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 Calamari (Calamares), Lumpiang Shanghai (Fried Spring Rolls), Tortang Talong (Eggplant Omelet), and street foods like fish or squid balls.
    • Grilled or roasted foods: Used as a glaze or dipping sauce for Lechon Manok (Roasted Chicken), Inihaw na Manok (Grilled Chicken), and other grilled/roasted foods like shrimp or fish.
    • Silog breakfasts: Pairs well with some silog-type breakfasts consisting of sinangag (garlic fried rice), itlog (egg), and proteins such as fried milkfish/bangus (Bangsilog) and fried chicken (Chicksilog).
    • Sweet and Sour: A sweet and tangy stir-fry with protein and vegetables.
    Lumpiang Shanghai (Fried Spring Roll) dipped in sweet chili sauce.

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    📖 Recipe

    Sweet Chili Sauce in a bowl

    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 less for table salt)  adjust to taste
    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
    Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @recipesbynora or tag #RecipesByNora!

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    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

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