What if you could create a vibrant, tangy sweet chili sauce that transforms any dish in just 5 minutes? This homemade sweet chili sauce recipe is bursting with fiery kick, sweet tang, and velvety texture—no preservatives or mystery ingredients! Whether you’re glazing wings, drizzling over Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, or dipping spring rolls, this sauce will become your kitchen MVP. Customize the spice level, tweak the sweetness, and enjoy a condiment that’s leagues ahead of store-bought bottles!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
With just 7 pantry staples and 5 minutes, you’ll craft a sauce that rivals gourmet brands. Let’s break it down:
Ingredients
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey for a refined sugar-free option)
- 2 tbsp distilled white vinegar
- ½ tsp chili powder (adjust for heat preference)
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
Step 1: Mix the Base
First, grab a medium mixing bowl and vigorously whisk together the tomato sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar until fully dissolved. This creates the sweet-tangy foundation of your sweet chili sauce.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Next, sprinkle in the chili powder, allspice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fully incorporated and the sauce achieves a smooth, velvety consistency.
Step 3: Store & Serve
Finally, pour the sauce into a glass jar or airtight container. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. Pro Tip: Let it rest for 2 hours before using to let the flavors meld!
Sweet Chili Sauce: Your Flavor Fireworks Moment
Imagine cracking open your jar and inhaling the aroma—smoky chili, sweet garlic, and a hint of warming allspice. Drizzle it over crispy Cajun Chicken Pasta, dip tempura veggies, or glaze grilled shrimp. The sauce clings to food with a glossy finish, delivering a punch of heat that mellows into caramelized sweetness. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day spreads, or elevating meal prep staples like rice bowls!
Sweet Chili Sauce FAQs
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
Absolutely! Swap brown sugar with 1.5 tbsp honey for a natural twist. Adjust to taste after mixing.
How do I make it spicier?
Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 minced fresh chili (like serrano) when blending the sauce.
How long does homemade sweet chili sauce last?
Stored in an airtight jar, it keeps for 3 weeks refrigerated. Always use a clean spoon to prevent spoilage.
Can I use this sauce for marinades?
Yes! Brush it on chicken, tofu, or salmon before baking or grilling for sticky-sweet caramelization.
Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Servings
10
Category
Seasonal and special recipes
Skip the store-bought version and whip up this easy homemade sweet chili sauce in just 5 minutes! It’s rich, tangy, and perfectly spiced—plus, you can tweak the flavors to suit your taste. Keep it in the fridge, and you’ll always have a delicious condiment ready to go!
Ingredient
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or more to taste)
- 2 tbsp distilled white vinegar
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
Instructions
- First, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the tomato sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar.
- Next, add the chili powder, allspice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Keep whisking until well combined.
- Finally, transfer to a jar or airtight container. Store in the fridge and use as needed!
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 17
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 4g
- Protein: 0g
Pro Tips
For extra depth of flavor, let the sauce sit in the fridge for a few hours before using—it allows the spices to meld beautifully!
Pro Tips for Mastering Your Sweet Chili Sauce
- Balance is Key: Start with 2 tbsp sugar, then adjust after refrigerating—the sweetness mellows as the sauce chills.
- Heat Hack: Add 1 tsp gochujang paste for complex, fermented heat that elevates marinades.
- Texture Twist: Simmer the sauce for 3 minutes on low heat if you prefer a thicker, glaze-like consistency.
- Freezer-Friendly: Pour leftovers into ice cube trays and freeze for instant flavor bombs to toss into Creamy Tortellini Soup or stir-fries.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Fridge Storage: Use glass jars (not plastic) to prevent flavor absorption. Sauce stays fresh for 3 weeks at 40°F or below.
- Reheating: If separated, shake jar vigorously or whisk in 1 tsp warm water. Avoid microwaving—heat gently in a saucepan.
- Freezing: Store in ¼-cup portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Perfect Pairings for Sweet Chili Sauce
- Appetizers: Dunk Cranberry Brie Bites or crispy spring rolls for sweet-spicy contrast.
- Proteins: Glaze Miso Salmon or toss with Hot Honey Salmon Bowls.
- Vegetables: Drizzle over roasted Brussels sprouts or stir into Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes for a kick.
- Grains: Swirl into coconut rice or Oyakodon Rice Bowls for instant depth.
Unlock Endless Flavor with Your Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce
Now that you’ve mastered this versatile condiment, it’s time to get creative! Whip up a double batch to gift in mason jars (tie with twine and a recipe card) or experiment with bold twists like adding lime zest for citrusy zing. Seasonal idea: Use it as a glaze for holiday Pecan-Crusted Salmon or mix into mayo for a spicy summer burger sauce.
Share the Spice Love!
- Tag Us: Snap a photo of your sauce drizzled over Fried Apples or Pumpkin Bread Pudding and tag #HomemadeSweetChili for a feature!
- Subscribe: Get weekly recipes like Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp delivered to your inbox—perfect for your newfound sauce obsession.
- Save for Later: Bookmark this page or pin the recipe to your ‘Condiment Hacks’ board!
Ready to transform every meal? Grab that jar and let your kitchen adventures begin!