The allure of sweet and sour flavors is undeniable – who can resist the tangy, yet harmonious balance of sweet and tart notes? In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouth-watering sweet and sour sauce recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure. From classic comfort foods to innovative vegetarian and vegan options, our list has something for everyone.
Start with timeless favorites like Classic Sweet and Sour Chicken or Sweet and Sour Pork with Pineapple, both of which combine the nostalgic flavors of childhood with a modern twist. Or, explore new horizons with Vegetarian Sweet and Sour Tofu, Sweet and Sour Shrimp Stir-Fry, or even Sweet and Sour Cauliflower Bites – all of which showcase the versatility of this beloved flavor combination.
Classic Sweet and Sour Chicken
A classic Chinese-American dish that combines crispy chicken, tangy sweet and sour sauce, and crunchy vegetables – perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil and cook onion and garlic until softened, about 1 minute. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons water. Pour into the wok or skillet and stir to combine with vegetable mixture.
5. Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat with sweet and sour sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until chicken is coated.
6. Serve immediately over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork with Pineapple
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of a sweet and sour sauce, all wrapped up in crispy pork. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and cornstarch.
2. Add the pineapple chunks and set aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the pork pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the pork from the skillet and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
6. Pour in the sweet and sour sauce mixture and bring to a boil.
7. Return the pork to the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional pineapple chunks if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Shrimp Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! This Sweet and Sour Shrimp Stir-Fry is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with succulent shrimp cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Pour in sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce; stir-fry to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetarian Sweet and Sour Tofu
This recipe is a classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the flavors of sweet and sour with crispy tofu, perfect for a quick and easy vegetarian meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil, divided
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
2. Toss tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture until well coated.
3. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1/8 cup vegetable oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add sliced bell peppers to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
6. Stir in sweet and sour sauce and bring to a simmer. Return tofu to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Add a tangy twist to your meatball game with this simple recipe that combines sweet and sour flavors. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the sweet and sour sauce in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and add them to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, coated with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cauliflower Bites
Transform cauliflower into a crispy, sweet, and tangy snack with this simple recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and break it into florets.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
4. Toss the cauliflower florets in the mixture until evenly coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cauliflower bites in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your Sweet and Sour Cauliflower Bites!
Sweet and Sour Fish Fillets
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of sugar and vinegar with the savory flavor of fish, Sweet and Sour Fish Fillets is a crowd-pleaser. This recipe yields tender and juicy fish fillets coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil, divided
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix together cornstarch and a pinch of salt. Add the fish pieces and toss to coat evenly.
3. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1/4 cup vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until softened.
5. Pour in the sweet and sour sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return the cooked fish to the pan and toss with the sauce until coated.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Vegetable Medley
This vibrant medley of vegetables is a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors, making it a great side dish or light meal. With a mix of colorful bell peppers, crunchy carrots, and tangy pineapple, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, combine bell peppers and carrots.
2. Add sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss to coat.
3. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Sour Ribs
Get ready for a tangy twist on classic ribs! This Sweet and Sour Ribs recipe combines the richness of pork with the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from ribs (optional). Place ribs in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
4. Pour the sweet and sour glaze over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until ribs are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Glazed Salmon
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this sweet and tangy salmon recipe. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and vinegar creates a sticky glaze that complements the rich flavor of salmon perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings
This recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors to create a deliciously addictive snack or appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying crispy and flavorful chicken wings in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove the wings from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Fry in hot oil until crispy, then bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
5. Toss the fried wings in the remaining marinade sauce before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Sour Eggplant
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the natural bitterness of eggplant with a tangy sweet and sour sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant slices and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
4. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir to coat the eggplant.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Beef Stir-Fry
Quickly stir-fry tender beef strips with a tangy sweet and sour sauce, served over crispy vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper slices
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, broccoli, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Return beef to the pan; pour in sweet and sour sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Quinoa Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with quinoa, sweet and tangy vegetables, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small zucchini, diced
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and zucchini; cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, vegetable mixture, and sweet and sour sauce in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Tempeh
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with a tangy sweet and sour sauce, making it a perfect vegan twist on traditional Asian-style dishes. With its crunchy texture and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package tempeh
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the tempeh into small cubes and place in a shallow dish.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Pour the sauce over the tempeh, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Fried Rice
A twist on the classic Chinese dish, this sweet and sour pineapple fried rice adds a burst of tropical flavor to your meal. With crispy vegetables, savory soy sauce, and juicy pineapple chunks, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sweet and sour sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the wok. Crack in the eggs (if using) and scramble until cooked through.
4. Stir-fry the rice with soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and sugar for about 2 minutes.
5. Add pineapple chunks and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Combine the rice mixture with the vegetables and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Jackfruit Tacos
Sweet and Sour Jackfruit Tacos: A Twist on Traditional Taco Fillings
Experience the unique flavor of jackfruit in a sweet and sour twist on traditional taco fillings. This recipe combines the meaty texture of jackfruit with tangy and spicy flavors, making it a perfect addition to your next taco night.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh), drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
2. Add the chopped jackfruit to the marinade and mix well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the marinated jackfruit onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your choice of toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Sweet and Sour Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Twist on Classic Chinese Flavor
Get ready to wrap up the flavors of China with a sweet and sour twist! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– 8-10 lettuce leaves ( Romaine or Butter letuce work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
2. Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
3. Heat remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken onto lettuce leaves, then sprinkle with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad
A refreshing twist on classic cucumber salad, this sweet and sour recipe is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, and water until dissolved.
2. Add sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat with the sweet and sour mixture.
3. Sprinkle chopped mint leaves over the cucumbers and toss again to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Sweet and Sour Glazed Tofu Skewers
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional skewers, these glazed tofu bites are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour glaze (see below)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Sweet and Sour Glaze:
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread tofu cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush both sides of the tofu with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle sweet and sour glaze over the tofu, making sure they’re all coated.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized and the tofu is tender.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Satisfy your taste buds with these 20 mouthwatering sweet and sour sauce recipes! From classic comfort food like Sweet and Sour Chicken to innovative vegetarian options like Vegetarian Sweet and Sour Tofu, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a variety of dishes, including meatballs, fish fillets, eggplant, quinoa bowls, and even vegan-friendly jackfruit tacos. These irresistible recipes will have you craving sweet and sour flavors all day long!
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