Skip to main content

Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

This sweet and savory sandwich spread or dipping sauce is a natural pairing for cheese.

Cooks' Note

A nonreactive saucepan refers to one made of metals, such as stainless steel, that have no negative reaction to foods that are cooked in them. Reactive metals, like copper, aluminum, and cast iron, react detrimentally with certain foods, particularly those that are acidic, such as lemon, tomatoes, and vinegar, imparting an off flavor and sometimes color.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes 1 cup

Ingredients

4 garlic cloves, peeled
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
1/2 cup cider vinegar
2/3 cup gently packed light brown sugar

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Using a mortar and pestle, pound or mash the garlic and salt together. Stir in the pepper flakes and set aside.

    Step 2

    Place the vinegar in a small, nonreactive saucepan (see Note). Bring it to a boil over high heat. Stir in the sugar, reduce the heat, and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic mixture and cook for 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before using.

  2. Make Ahead

    Step 3

    The sauce will keep in a glass or ceramic container for 5 days in the refrigerator.

Pure Flavor
Read More
Like miso-peanut hibachi chicken and spring orzotto.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
A crowd-friendly, crisp-edged chicken and vegetable rice from chef José Andrés.
Like José Andrés’s paella and not one but two chicken stir-fries.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.
This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.
The magic of this hibachi chicken recipe comes from a combination of miso and peanut butter and how it beautifully caramelizes when it hits the grill.