Sweet & Sour Orange-Ginger Sauce

Sweet & Sour Orange-Ginger Sauce

Ingredients:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
  
• 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, minced or grated
  
  
• 1–2 star anise pods
  
  
• 1 tsp whole cloves
  
  
• 1 can (about 6 oz or 170g) tomato paste
  
  
• Juice and zest of 2 large oranges
  
  
• 300 ml white vinegar
  
  
• 200 ml orange squash (concentrated orange drink)
  
  
• 300 g white sugar
  
  

Optional Additions (to enhance flavor):

• 1 tsp soy sauce or fish sauce (for umami)
  
  
• 1 tsp chili flakes or fresh chili (for heat)
  
  
• Cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) if you want to thicken it
  
  

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   In a saucepan, sauté the garlic and ginger on medium heat until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
   
   
2. Add Spices:
   Add star anise and cloves. Stir for 1 minute to release their aromas.
   
   
3. Mix Base:
   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to remove rawness.
   
   
4. Add Liquids & Sugar:
   Pour in the orange juice and zest, white vinegar, and orange squash. Stir well.
   
   
5. Sweeten:
   Add the sugar and stir until fully dissolved.
   
   
6. Simmer:
   Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 15–20 minutes to let flavors meld and the sauce reduce slightly.
   
   
7. Optional Thickening:
   If desired, stir in a cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.
   
   
8. Strain & Cool:
   Remove star anise and cloves (or strain the whole sauce if you prefer it smooth). Let cool.
   
   
9. Store:
   Store in a sterilized jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
   
   

Great Uses For This Sauce:

• Glaze for chicken, pork, or duck
  
  
• Stir-fry sauce
  
  
• Dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings
  
  

Marinade for grilled meats