Sweet and Sour has to be the iconic Chinese Takeaway sauce of all time.
Sweet and Sour sauce is a delicate blend of pineapple juice, ketchup and sugar to create an authentic oriental dipping sauce. You can make this Sweet and Sour taste any way you like, a little more Sour or a little more Sweet by adding a bit more sugar and Ketchup.
I use this sauce for my Crispy Chicken Balls in batter or as a dip for Spring Rolls, prawn Crackers and even Chips.
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Origins of Sweet and Sour Sauce
The origins of sweet and sour sauce can be traced back to ancient Chinese cuisine, where the balance of flavours has long been a hallmark of culinary tradition.
This sauce, characterized by its harmonious blend of sweetness and acidity, is believed to have emerged during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), a period known for its cultural and gastronomic advancements.
Initially, the sauce was crafted using simple ingredients such as vinegar and sugar, which were combined to enhance the flavours of various dishes, particularly meats and vegetables.
Over time, regional variations developed, incorporating local ingredients and preferences, leading to the diverse interpretations of sweet and sour sauce that we see today.
In Western cuisine, the sauce gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly through Chinese-American restaurants, where it was adapted to suit local tastes, often featuring pineapple and bell peppers.
This evolution reflects not only the adaptability of the sauce but also the broader cultural exchange between East and West, showcasing how traditional recipes can transform and thrive in new culinary landscapes.
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Serves: Six
Easy
Cook in: 10 min
Prep: 5 min
What equipment do you need ?
Small Bell Whisk
saucepan
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What is Sweet and Sour Sauce
Sweet and sour sauce is a popular condiment known for its unique balance of flavours, combining the sweetness of sugar or fruit with the tanginess of vinegar or citrus.
This versatile sauce is often used in Asian cuisine, particularly in dishes like sweet and sour chicken or pork, enhancing the overall taste experience. Its vibrant flavour not only complements fried foods but also adds a tasty contrast to savory dishes, making it a popular choice for a saturday night takeaway. Whether used as a dipping sauce or a glaze, sweet and sour sauce elevates meals with its irresistible taste.
4 tablespoons of pineapple juice (60 ml)
4 tablespoon white wine vinegar (60 ml)
40 g Soft brown Sugar
8 tablespoons of ketchup (120 ml)
4 tablespoon of light soy sauce (60ml)
2 teaspoons cornflour
Splash of water
VegetarianEgg freeNut free
Health & Nutrition:
This is based on 1 tablespoon
17g
Calories: 25
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6.1g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 3gHigh
High sugar
Cost to make:
£0.81 / $1.03 (Est.)
*Prices may vary.
Cooking Instructions
In a small pan add together the Pineapple juice , Vinegar , Sugar , Ketchup and Soy Sauce.
Mix together and bring to the boil.
Mix the cornflour with some water to form a thin paste.
When the ingredients are simmering , add the cornflour mix a little at a time mixing continually until the mixture is at the right consistency.
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Chefs Tips
You could substitute half of the Soy Sauce for a shot of Bourbon (Jack Daniels), make this an Adult Sweet & Sour Sauce.
Cuisine: Chinese
