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Sweet and sour sauce with pineapple chunks
Better-Than-Takeout Sweet and Sour Sauce

Classic Sweet & Sour Sauce with Pineapple

Author: Flavelo
Sauces and Gravies Recipes Vegetarian & Vegan Dishes
The star of Chinese buffets and takeout nights. While roots trace back to Canton, the ketchup-based version is a beloved Western adaptation. The fruitiness of pineapple, acidity of vinegar, and sweetness of sugar create balance, while cornstarch provides that signature glossy coating.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 15 mins
⌛ Total Time 30 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 180 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Chinese-American

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Knife

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy

Instructions

1 ✓

Cut pineapple and bell pepper into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. Grate the ginger.

Tip: Uniform sizing ensures even cooking and a professional look.
2 ✓

In a saucepan, combine water, vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, and sugar. Heat until sugar dissolves.

Tip: Ketchup provides the body and iconic red color, while soy adds umami.
3 ✓

Add grated ginger, pineapple, and peppers. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.

Tip: Keep the vegetables slightly crisp for texture.
4 ✓

Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir into the boiling sauce.

Tip: This thickens the sauce to that familiar 'takeout' consistency.
5 ✓

Boil for 1-2 minutes until clear and thick.

Tip: Dilute with water if it becomes too thick.

Recipe FAQ

It's too sour!
Vinegars vary in acidity. If it's too sharp, add a little more sugar or a splash of water.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Fresh Pineapple (cubed)
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar (or Apple Cider Vinegar)
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper
  • 1 tsp Fresh Ginger (grated)