Description
Sizzling Chinese garlic sauce brings explosive flavor to any dish with its perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and umami notes. Home cooks can easily master this quick condiment that elevates proteins and vegetables with authentic Asian kitchen magic.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Flavoring Ingredients:
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 4 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced (about 4 garlic cloves)
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
Spices and Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns (optional)
- 2 teaspoons Chinese rice wine or dry sherry (optional)
Thickening Agent:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, vigorously combine sauce ingredients until thoroughly blended, creating a smooth, well-integrated mixture.
- Warm vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, carefully introducing minced garlic and ginger to the pan.
- Gently sauté aromatics for approximately 45 seconds, releasing their intense fragrance and developing a rich, golden base.
- Quickly re-whisk the previously prepared sauce to ensure ingredients remain evenly distributed.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics, allowing the liquid to reach a rolling boil.
- Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, continuously stirring to prevent scorching and promote even thickening.
- Monitor the sauce’s consistency, stirring frequently until it reaches a glossy, slightly viscous texture that coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly, allowing flavors to meld and intensify.
- Use immediately as a vibrant accompaniment to stir-fries, a zesty dipping sauce, or transfer to a clean jar for future culinary adventures.
Notes
- Crafted with simple pantry staples, this versatile sauce delivers a powerful punch of umami and garlic that will make your taste buds dance with excitement.
- Perfect for meal preppers and busy home cooks wanting to elevate their stir-fries, dipping needs, or quick flavor boosts.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 55
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg