When it comes to cooking, few cuisines can rival the rich flavors and aromas of Chinese cuisine. And at the heart of any great Chinese dish is a sauce that brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, having a repertoire of delicious sauces up your sleeve can elevate even the simplest meal into an unforgettable dining experience.
From sweet and sour to spicy and savory, Chinese sauces offer an incredible range of flavors to explore. And the best part? Most of these sauces are incredibly easy to make at home, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 of the most flavorful Chinese sauces recipes, each one perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special celebration with friends and family.
Sweet and Sour Sauce
Add a tangy twist to your favorite dishes with this sweet and sour sauce recipe! This versatile condiment is perfect for marinating meats, serving as a dipping sauce, or adding flavor to stir-fries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Whisk until smooth.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until well combined. Add to the saucepan and whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of sweet and sour sauce
Black Bean Garlic Sauce
Elevate your Mexican dishes with this smoky and savory black bean garlic sauce, perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (for extra heat)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine black beans, garlic, vegetable oil, lime juice, and cumin.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional lime juice if desired.
4. If using chipotle peppers, add them now and blend until well combined.
5. Transfer sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Blend time: 2-3 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
Hoisin Glazed Ribs
Sweet and sticky, these Hoisin Glazed Ribs are a crowd-pleaser for any barbecue or gathering. With a simple marinade and a short cooking time, you’ll be enjoying fall-off-the-bone tender ribs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Place the ribs in a large bowl and brush with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25 minutes or until caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Szechuan Spicy Chili Oil
A staple condiment in Szechuan cuisine, this spicy chili oil is a flavorful addition to any dish. Its bold, savory, and slightly sweet flavor will elevate your cooking to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 4-6 dried red Szechuan peppercorns
– 2-3 whole cloves
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2-3 teaspoons Szechuan chili flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over low-medium heat.
2. Add the dried red Szechuan peppercorns and whole cloves. Cook for 5 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add the grated ginger and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the Szechuan chili flakes. Season with salt to taste.
5. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar or container.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oyster Sauce Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This oyster sauce stir-fry is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cooked chicken, garlic, and oyster sauce. Stir-fry for another minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Plum Sauce Dumplings
Discover the sweet and savory delight of Plum Sauce Dumplings! These tender dumplings are wrapped in a rich plum sauce that’s perfect for serving as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup plum sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok with 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together plum sauce, scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a tablespoon of the plum sauce mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook dumplings in the preheated skillet or wok for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown.
7. Serve hot with additional plum sauce for dipping, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki-Style Chinese Marinade
Elevate your Chinese-inspired dishes with this classic teriyaki-style marinade, perfect for marinating meats, seafood, or vegetables. This sweet and savory blend is a staple in many Asian cuisines.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None! This marinade is designed to be used before cooking, not cooked itself.
Kung Pao Sauce with Peanuts
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this spicy and nutty Kung Pao sauce, perfect for stir-fries, noodles, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup peanuts
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
2. In a wok or large skillet, toast peanuts over medium heat until fragrant.
3. Add sesame oil, Sichuan peppercorns, red pepper flakes (if using), garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and stir constantly until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Char Siu (BBQ) Sauce
Add a rich, caramel-like flavor to your Chinese dishes with this homemade Char Siu (BBQ) sauce recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger to the saucepan.
4. Whisk until well combined.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
This Char Siu (BBQ) sauce is perfect for glazing meats, stir-frying vegetables, or using as a dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Garlic Ginger Dipping Sauce
Garlic Ginger Dipping Sauce Recipe
A savory and aromatic dipping sauce that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite snacks or appetizers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
2. Add the soy sauce and honey, stirring until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
This creamy and tangy sauce is perfect for dipping vegetables, crackers, or your favorite snacks. You can also use it as a marinade for grilled meats or seafood. Enjoy!
Five-Spice Hoisin Drizzle
Elevate your Asian-inspired dishes with this aromatic and flavorful drizzle, infused with the warm spices of five-spice powder.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and five-spice powder until smooth.
2. Add rice vinegar and red pepper flakes (if using); whisk until combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a sauce that requires no cooking!
Chinese Mustard Dipping Sauce
Elevate your Chinese-inspired meals with this tangy and savory dipping sauce, made with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Chinese mustard (such as Szechuan or hot mustard)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Chinese mustard, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the mixture and whisk until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sesame Soy Glazed Noodles
Elevate your noodle game with this easy and flavorful recipe! This Sesame Soy Glazed Noodle dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as soba, udon, or rice noodles)
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger over medium heat.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Toss cooked noodles with the glaze until well coated.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Pot Sesame Dipping Sauce
Enhance your hot pot experience with this savory and nutty dipping sauce, perfectly balanced to complement a variety of ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini and soy sauce until smooth.
2. Add sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready in just a few minutes.
Chow Mein Sauce with Dark Soy
Elevate your stir-fry game with this simple and flavorful sauce recipe that combines the richness of dark soy with the savory taste of chow mein. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this sauce is a must-have in your culinary arsenal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dark soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together dark soy sauce, vegetable oil, oyster sauce (if using), garlic, and ginger until smooth.
2. Add sesame oil and whisk until combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready when you are.
Mapo Tofu Spicy Bean Sauce
This Mapo Tofu Spicy Bean Sauce is a popular Chinese dish that combines the flavors of tofu, fermented soybeans, and chili peppers. A flavorful and spicy sauce perfect for noodles, rice, or as a dipping condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 2 cups fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (Lao Gan Ma)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until the tofu is golden brown.
3. Add soybeans, kidney beans, chili bean paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve immediately over noodles, rice, or as a dipping condiment.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Citrus Ponzu for Dumplings
A flavorful and tangy dipping sauce perfect for steamed or pan-fried dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together grapefruit and orange juices.
2. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a condiment. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside steamed or pan-fried dumplings.
Sticky Honey Garlic Wings
Transform your ordinary chicken wings into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the sticky mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fermented Chili Bean Paste
This fermented chili bean paste, also known as “doubanjiang” in Chinese, is a popular condiment used to add depth and umami flavor to various dishes. It’s made by fermenting a mixture of chilies, beans, garlic, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried ancho or mulato chilies
– 1/2 cup cooked kidney beans
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fermented soybean paste (dòuchī)
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried chilies and rehydrate them by soaking in hot water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and chop the rehydrated chilies into small pieces.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped chilies, cooked kidney beans, garlic, fermented soybean paste, and salt. Blend until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a ceramic container with a wide mouth. Add the water and stir well.
5. Cover the container with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 3-5 days, stirring daily.
6. Once the fermentation process is complete, store the fermented chili bean paste in the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process.
Cooking Time: 3-5 days
Scallion Oil Noodle Sauce
Elevate your noodle game with this savory and aromatic Scallion Oil Noodle Sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a topping for your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup neutral oil (such as canola or grapeseed)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced scallions and cook until they’re softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the Scallion Oil Noodle Sauce over your favorite noodles, such as ramen or udon.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine with these 20 recipes for delicious sauces! From sweet and sour to spicy and savory, this collection has something for every occasion. Try making Hoisin Glazed Ribs for a BBQ-inspired feast or Sesame Soy Glazed Noodles for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for stir-fries, noodle dishes, dumplings, and more, these flavorful sauces are sure to elevate your cooking game.
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