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–+ servings
Szechuan Sauce

Homemade Szechuan Sauce: Bold, Sweet, and Spicy Magic

This Homemade Szechuan Sauce is a quick, preservative-free blend of bold flavors, perfect for enhancing any dish.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 40
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce Substitute with gluten-free tamari for gluten-free option.
  • 2 teaspoons sugar Add more for a sweeter taste if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Chinkiang vinegar May substitute with rice vinegar.
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic (minced) Use fresh for optimal flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger (minced) Use fresh for optimal flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Used as a thickening agent.
  • 1/2 cup water Used to dissolve cornstarch and adjust sauce consistency.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Szechuan Sauce
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of chili garlic sauce, 2 tablespoons of Chinkiang vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Add ½ teaspoon of minced garlic, ½ teaspoon of minced ginger, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk ingredients thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes until smooth.
  2. Transfer the sauce mixture to a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking for about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Continue stirring as the sauce comes to a light simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens and becomes glossy. Add more water if too thick.
  4. Remove from heat and allow to cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes before transferring to an airtight container.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 40kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 100mgSugar: 5gCalcium: 10mg

Notes

Ensure to store the sauce in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Freeze in ice cube trays for longer storage.

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