Description
This Chinese Garlic Stir-Fry Sauce is thick, savory, and loaded with umami-rich garlic flavor. Made with soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and a touch of spice, it’s a quick and easy homemade brown sauce perfect for stir-fried veggies, tofu, or noodles.
Ingredients
-
1 tbsp oil (avocado or sesame)
-
4 garlic cloves, minced
-
1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
-
1/4 cup water
-
2 tbsp rice vinegar
-
2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
-
1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water into slurry)
-
1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
-
1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
-
Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
-
Add minced garlic (and ginger, if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Stir in soy sauce, water, vinegar, and sugar. Bring to a simmer.
-
Add the cornstarch slurry while whisking to prevent lumps.
-
Simmer and whisk for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
-
Stir in chili flakes if desired. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
-
Use immediately or store in a jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Notes
-
Great as a base for tofu, stir-fried broccoli, noodles, or rice dishes.
-
Add a splash of orange juice or hoisin for variation.
-
Double the batch for easy meal prep sauce through the week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce / Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Chinese-Inspired
Nutrition
- Calories: 40 kcal per serving
