Grandma’s Sweet Chili Sauce

There’s something timeless and comforting about family recipes passed down through generations. Grandma’s Sweet Chili Sauce is one of those treasures—sweet, tangy, slightly spicy, and perfect for dipping, drizzling, or marinating. It’s a staple in many kitchens for a reason: it brings bold, nostalgic flavor to almost any dish.

Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade sweet chili sauce uses simple pantry ingredients and no preservatives. It’s balanced just right—not too hot, not too sweet—with a sticky texture and bright flavor that complements everything from spring rolls to grilled chicken.

Whether you’re looking to recreate an old family favorite or just want to elevate your dipping game, this sauce is easy to make and even easier to love. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to the bottled version again.

🕒 Cooking Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes

• Cooling Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: ~25 minutes

• Yield: ~1½ cups

• Servings: 12 (2 tbsp per serving)

📝 Ingredients

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup white vinegar (or rice vinegar for a milder flavor)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional, for deeper umami)

• 2–3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1–2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)

• 1 tbsp ketchup (for color and slight tang)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp cold water (for slurry)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Grandma’s Sweet Chili Sauce

Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients

In a small saucepan, add water, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), minced garlic, chili flakes, and ketchup. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

Step 3: Thicken with Slurry

In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to form a smooth slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously.

Step 4: Cook Until Thick

Continue to simmer the sauce for 3–5 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Cool & Store

Remove from heat and let cool completely. Transfer to a clean glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

💡 Notes

• Chili Heat: Start with 1 tsp of chili flakes for mild heat, and increase to 2 tsp or more for spicier sauce.

• Consistency: The sauce thickens more as it cools. If it gets too thick, thin with a little water before serving.

• Storage Tip: Use a sterilized jar for longer shelf life. Shake or stir before each use.

• Vegan Version: Skip the fish sauce and add an extra splash of soy sauce or a pinch of miso paste.

❓ FAQs

Can I use fresh chilies instead of flakes?

Yes! Finely mince 1–2 red chilies and simmer them in the sauce for a fresher, fruitier heat.

What can I use this sauce for?

It’s great with egg rolls, dumplings, grilled meats, tofu, spring rolls, rice bowls, or even scrambled eggs.

How long does homemade sweet chili sauce last?

Stored in a clean, airtight jar in the fridge, it should last up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze this sauce?

It’s not ideal for freezing due to the cornstarch, which may change texture when thawed.

🍽️ Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 2 tbsp)

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This recipe is a sweet and flavorful condiment intended to be enjoyed in moderation. It contains sugar and sodium, which may not suit all dietary needs. Those with allergies to soy, seafood (fish sauce), or garlic should read ingredient labels carefully or make appropriate substitutions. Always consult a healthcare provider if you have dietary restrictions or food sensitivities.