Name: Sweet Chilli Sauce with Fresh Chillies Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 80 grams Red chilli pepper (About 2.8oz / ½ cup) or 2-3 tbsp dried crushed chilli flakes; 2 tbsp Garlic (Minced); 120 ml Water (About ½ cup); 120 ml Distilled white vinegar (About ½ cup); 100 grams Sugar (About ½ cup); 1 tsp Salt; 1 tbsp Cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (cornstarch slurry)

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Introduction

Sweet chilli sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a perfect balance of heat and sweetness to any dish. Made with fresh chillies and a simple blend of ingredients, this homemade version is quick to prepare and far tastier than store-bought alternatives.

A clear glass jar filled with bright orange chili sauce showing visible seeds and small chunks of chili. The sauce has a slightly thick texture with a shiny surface. The jar sits on a white marbled surface with a whole red chili pepper and a clove of garlic nearby, adding a fresh and spicy feel to the image. In the background, a beige cloth is softly blurred, creating a warm and homey atmosphere. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

80 grams red chilli pepper (about 2.8 oz / ½ cup) or 2-3 tbsp dried crushed chilli flakes
120 ml distilled white vinegar (about ½ cup)
100 grams sugar (about ½ cup)
120 ml water (about ½ cup)
2 tbsp garlic (minced)
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (cornstarch slurry)

Instructions

Step 1: If using fresh red chillies, blend the chillies, minced garlic, and water in a food processor until roughly chopped to create the base for the sauce. Skip this step if using dried chilli flakes.
Step 2: Transfer the blended mixture to a pot or saucepan. If using dried chilli flakes, add them directly to the pot along with garlic, water, and other ingredients.
Step 3: Add sugar, distilled white vinegar, and salt to the pot and stir to combine.
Step 4: Heat the mixture on the stovetop, bring to a simmer, and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Step 5: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking while stirring constantly for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency.
Step 6: Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool completely before transferring to a clean jar or container.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the spiciness by using more or fewer chillies or by mixing fresh chillies with dried flakes.
For a smoother texture, strain the sauce after simmering to remove chilli seeds and skins.
Add a splash of lime juice for a tangier twist.
Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer flavor.

Storage

Store the sweet chilli sauce in a clean airtight jar in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before serving if it thickens too much after cooling.

How to Serve

A small clear glass jar filled with bright orange chili sauce that has visible red and white chili seeds floating inside. The sauce has a thick, slightly chunky texture and fills the jar almost to the top. The jar is placed on a white marbled surface, with a red chili pepper and a garlic clove nearby, adding a fresh and spicy vibe to the scene. The background is soft and neutral, giving focus to the vibrant sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chillies for this sauce?

Yes, you can experiment with different varieties of chillies depending on your preferred heat level and flavor. Just adjust the quantity accordingly.

How long does the sauce last once refrigerated?

The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to keep it in a clean, airtight container to maintain freshness.