Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Requires just a few simple steps and comes together quickly.
• Versatile: Use it as a dipping sauce, glaze, or marinade for a variety of dishes.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of sweet pineapple, tangy vinegar, savory soy sauce, and spicy chili flakes makes for an irresistible sauce.
• Adjustable Heat Level: Customize the spice level to suit your taste by adjusting the red chili flakes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust based on heat preference)
• Salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the chopped pineapple, 1/2 cup water, white vinegar, honey, soy sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, and red chili flakes. Stir well.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pineapple to soften.
3. Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
4. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously.
5. Final Simmer: Let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Taste and Adjust: Add salt to taste and adjust the spice level if necessary by adding more chili flakes.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using. Serve as a dipping sauce, glaze, or drizzle over your favorite dishes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 1 cup of sauce
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Sweeter Sauce: Add an extra tablespoon of honey or a splash of pineapple juice.
• Milder Version: Reduce or omit the red chili flakes for a less spicy sauce.
• More Heat: Increase the chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Extra Citrus: Stir in a teaspoon of lime or orange juice for a fresh citrusy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh pineapple provides the best flavor. If using canned, choose pineapple in juice rather than syrup, and adjust the sweetness as needed.

How spicy is this sauce?

The spice level depends on the amount of red chili flakes used. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust according to your heat preference.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! This sauce stores well in the fridge and can be made up to a week in advance.

What can I serve this sauce with?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, stir-fries, rice bowls, and roasted vegetables.

Can I freeze this sauce?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make this sauce gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free soy sauce or substitute with tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar can be used as substitutes.

Will this sauce work as a marinade?

Absolutely! It works great as a marinade for meats, tofu, or vegetables.

How can I make this sauce thicker?

Increase the cornstarch slurry slightly or let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.

Can I use this sauce for stir-frying?

Yes! This sauce makes an excellent stir-fry sauce when tossed with vegetables, tofu, or protein.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors with a hint of tropical sweetness. Quick to prepare and incredibly versatile, this sauce is perfect for dipping, drizzling, glazing, or marinating. Whether you’re looking to enhance your grilled meats, stir-fries, or simple rice dishes, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.