5-Min Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe

Sweet & Sour Sauce is a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet dipping sauce—perfect for spring rolls, egg rolls, shrimp toast, and other crispy appetizers. This homemade version comes together in just 5 minutes and tastes even better than store-bought, with fresh, balanced flavor you’ll reach for again and again.

Makes: about 1 cup
Cook time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup water
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 tablespoons ketchup
5 tablespoons sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water to make a slurry.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, rice vinegar, ketchup, sugar, and salt. Whisk to blend and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Serve as a dipping sauce with your favorite dishes.

Tips & Notes

• Adjust sweetness or tang: Taste and adjust sugar or vinegar to your preference.
• Storage: Store in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.