Stir-Fry Sauce
This homemade stir fry sauce is a delicious mix of savory and slightly sweet while still having that signature umami flavor. There are many reasons to love this sauce. Being able to play around with the flavors to make it your own is one. Feel free to tailor the sweetness by adjusting the amount of honey or brown sugar. You can tweak the saltiness based on your choice of using low-sodium or regular soy sauce. And as a mom of littles, ease of prep will always be important. Just toss all ingredients in a bowl or jar, then whisk together. Prepping ahead of time will allow the flavors to meld and be truly amazing when added to your stir-fry dish. Did I mention it’s also more budget-friendly to whip up this sauce at home? When preparing meals for my family, I’m constantly seeking ways to cut down on costs. Chances are you’ve already got most of these simple ingredients in your pantry. If you prefer making and using homemade sauces, try this Low Sodium Teriyaki Sauce or this Thai Peanut Sauce.
Ingredients
Soy sauce – adds a savory, umami flavor. Choose low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, if gluten free. Pure maple syrup or honey – provides sweetness to balance out the savory flavors Rice vinegar – adds a tanginess and brightness to the sauce Sesame oil – infuses a nutty aroma and flavor Grated garlic and ginger – I like to grate them both but you can also finely chop your garlic, if you prefer. Chicken broth – adds depth to the sauce Corn starch – serves as a thickening agent and creates a glossy texture Hoisin sauce (optional) – offers a sweet and savory note with hints of garlic, chili peppers, and other spices. Adds great depth of flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for Success
I highly encourage you to make this sauce in advance for maximum flavor. The flavors will meld and develop over time.
Not only that, it will allow you to focus on tossing together your favorite veggies, proteins, and noodles or rice, knowing that your delicious sauce is ready and waiting to elevate your meal to the next level.
Substitutions
Cornstarch – Arrowroot or all-purpose flour can be substituted for cornstarch. Gluten Free? – The best substitute for soy sauce is tamari or coconut aminos. Hoisin Sauce – If you happen to run out of hoisin sauce, a quick fix is to add extra soy sauce. Fresh Ginger – In a pinch without fresh ginger root? No worries! You can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for every 1 teaspoon of peeled and grated fresh ginger. Keep in mind that while it works in a bind, the flavor of the final dish won’t be identical, so reserve this swap for when it’s truly necessary.
Serving Suggestions
This sauce was born for stir-fry, but honestly, it’s like the superhero of your kitchen – use it however you like! For a classic stir-fry, just throw it in with your go-to mix of veggies, protein, and noodles or rice. Like this EASY ground turkey stir-fry and vegetable stir fry noodles! Let it work its magic as a marinade or glaze for your chicken, beef, pork, or even tofu. It’s the perfect dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or tempura.
Storage
Simply store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Be sure to give it a quick stir before adding it to your stir fry.
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