- Did the garlic burn?
- If you see brown specks and taste bitterness, yes. Start over and watch the heat carefully!
Spicy Garlic Sweet & Sour Sauce
If you love classic sweet and sour but miss a bit of a kick, this is for you. The dominant garlic presence adds character and spice. A universal dip: great for spring rolls or fried chicken wings.
Ingredients
3
cloves
Garlic
2
tbsp
Honey
1
tbsp
Rice Vinegar
1
tbsp
Soy Sauce
1/4
cup
Ketchup
1/4
cup
Water
2
tsp
Cornstarch
1
tbsp
Olive Oil (or Sesame Oil)
1/2
tsp
Red Pepper Flakes
1/2
tsp
Salt
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Small Skillet
- Grater
- Whisk
Allergen Information
Soy
Instructions
1
✓
Peel and finely grate the garlic.
Tip: Grating provides a stronger flavor integration than chopping.
2
✓
Heat oil in a skillet over low heat. Add garlic and sauté gently until fragrant (max 1 minute).
Tip: Do not brown it! Burnt garlic is bitter.
3
✓
Stir in ketchup, honey, vinegar, soy sauce, water, and chili flakes.
Tip: Honey adds natural thickness and sweetness.
4
✓
Simmer on low for 3-4 minutes to meld flavors.
Tip: Cooking softens the sharp edge of the vinegar.
5
✓
Mix cornstarch with a splash of cold water, then whisk into the sauce until thickened.
Tip: This gives the sauce its final texture.
6
✓
Taste and season with salt if needed. Let cool slightly before serving.
Tip: It will seem thinner when hot but thickens upon cooling.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Honey
- 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/4 cup Ketchup
- 1/4 cup Water
- 2 tsp Cornstarch
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (or Sesame Oil)
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1/2 tsp Salt