This Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce is a sticky, sweet-spicy condiment that’s ready in minutes.
Perfect for drizzling over appetizers, spring rolls, dumplings, or grilled meats, this easy sauce balances heat, sweetness, and tang for a flavor-packed punch that everyone will love. Absolutely perfection to accompany my Fried Cheese Curds!
Why you’ll love this recipe!
What ingredients do I need?
- Rice Vinegar – Adds tangy brightness to balance the sweetness.
- Honey – Provides natural sweetness and sticky texture.
- Light Brown Sugar – Enhances depth and caramel-like flavor.
- Soy Sauce – Brings salty umami richness.
- Gochujang – Korean chili paste that adds heat and subtle complexity.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for savory, aromatic punch.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce into a glossy, clingy consistency.
- Water – Used to adjust consistency and help dissolve sugars.
Recipe Variations
- Mild Version: Reduce gochujang or swap with sweet chili sauce for less heat.
- Extra Spicy: Add more gochujang or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Citrus Twist: Add lime or orange juice for a fruity tang.
- Soy-Free: Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Pro Tips
- Whisk cornstarch slurry slowly into the simmering sauce to avoid lumps.
- Simmer gently; overboiling can thicken too quickly or cause sugar to burn.
- Taste and adjust chili paste gradually to achieve your preferred heat level.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before serving; it will thicken more as it cools.
- Store in a small jar for easy dipping at the table.
Can I Substitute?
Yes! Like always though, any substitutions made to the recipe can result in a change in texture and/or flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Vegan-Friendly: Honey can be swapped with maple syrup or agave.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce brown sugar or honey slightly, or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit syrup.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheat gently or use at room temperature for dipping.
- Stir before serving as some separation may occur.
But, I Still Have A Few Questions…
How long does this sauce last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Stir before using.
Can I make it spicier or milder?
Yes, adjust the gochujang to taste. More for extra heat, less for mild sweetness.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Honey can be substituted with maple syrup, agave, or your preferred liquid sweetener.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
No, but you can use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Can I thicken the sauce more?
Add a little more cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1–2 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
Let’s engage!
Make sure to tag @thehomechefmomma on Instagram or Facebook, and leave a review or comment if you make these. I always get so excited to see your creations, variations of the recipe, and feedback! Just remember to be kind in your comments, there is still a person behind this screen! 🙂
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce
Ingredients
- ½ cup rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 ½ tbsp light brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp gochujang adjust to taste for heat
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp water with cornstarch
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, honey, water, soy sauce, gochujang, and garlic.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
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Nutritional Content Disclaimer
I choose not to include nutritional information with my recipes, as these values can be calculated from the ingredients provided. With my background as a pediatric nurse practitioner and my own family experience with disordered eating, I understand how focusing on numbers can affect our relationship with food. My philosophy is that all foods have a place—sweet, savory, nourishing, or indulgent. I aim to share recipes that support a healthy, joyful approach to eating. My hope is that this space also encourages a balanced, healthy relationship with food for you and your family too.