Sweet Chili Pineapple Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it combines the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple with the subtle heat of chili flakes. The honey balances out the spiciness while the vinegar adds a hint of tang. This sauce is quick and easy to make, and it’s perfect for adding a tropical twist to any meal. Plus, the ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this sauce a go-to for weeknight dinners or BBQ parties.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh pineapple, finely chopped

1/2 cup water

1/4 cup white vinegar

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

2 teaspoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons water (additional for cornstarch)

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

In a saucepan over medium heat, I combine the chopped pineapple, 1/2 cup of water, vinegar, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. I bring the mixture to a simmer.

I reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes or until the pineapple becomes tender and soft.

In a small bowl, I dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. I stir this slurry into the simmering sauce.

Next, I add the red chili flakes and salt to taste. I continue to simmer the sauce for another 5 minutes until it thickens to the desired consistency.

Once done, I remove the sauce from heat and let it cool. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools down.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Spicy Level: Adjust the heat of the sauce by adding more or less chili flakes, depending on how spicy you like it.

Fruit Twist: For an added twist, you can experiment with other fruits like mango or papaya for a different flavor profile.

Vegan Option: Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version of this sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I recommend storing the Sweet Chili Pineapple Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If I want to reheat it, I simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.

Related Recipes:

• Pineapple Juice Cake
• The Best Ground Beef Chili
• Pineapple Cream Cheesecake

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

While fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, canned pineapple can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

If I prefer a sweeter sauce, I can simply add a bit more honey. If I want it less sweet, I can reduce the amount of honey or add extra vinegar for balance.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I can make this sauce ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge for about a week and can be reheated as needed.

Can I use this sauce as a marinade?

Absolutely! This sauce works great as a marinade for chicken, pork, or even tofu. Just marinate the proteins for at least 30 minutes before cooking for the best flavor.

What can I pair this sauce with?

I love pairing this sauce with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even using it as a dip for spring rolls, dumplings, or crispy fried appetizers.

Conclusion

This Sweet Chili Pineapple Sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, balanced flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste preferences, and perfect for bringing a tropical flair to any meal. Whether I’m serving it alongside grilled chicken or using it as a dipping sauce, I know it’s sure to be a hit!