Description
A flavorful homemade chili garlic sauce combining fresh Thai chilies, garlic, and a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Perfect as a spicy condiment or ingredient in many dishes, this sauce is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be stored for weeks.
Ingredients
Scale
Chili Garlic Paste
- 10–12 red Thai chilies (or your preferred chili variety)
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled
Cooking and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chilies: If you prefer extra spicy sauce, leave the seeds in the chilies; remove them to reduce heat. Roughly chop the chilies to prepare for blending.
- Blend the Sauce: Add the chopped chilies and peeled garlic cloves into a food processor or blender. Pulse until a paste forms. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water if needed to assist blending.
- Cook the Sauce: Heat vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the chili-garlic paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden, avoiding burning.
- Add Sweet and Tangy Flavor: Stir in sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and salt. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes allowing all flavors to meld.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors thoroughly.
- Cool and Store: Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring to a jar or bottle. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
Notes
- Remove chili seeds to lower the heat level.
- Use red Thai chilies for authentic flavor, but any chili variety can be substituted.
- Adjust sugar and vinegar amounts to balance sweetness and acidity to taste.
- Store in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 weeks for best flavor.
- Use as a condiment or incorporate into stir-fries, marinades, or dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
