Best Asian Essentials The Absolute Best Stir Fry Sauce Recipes

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REAL CHINESE ALL PURPOSE STIR FRY SAUCE



Real Chinese All Purpose Stir Fry Sauce image

My secret weapon for mid week meals - an All Purposes Chinese Stir Fry Sauce, a versatile base that makes a wonderfully glossy sauce for any stir fry, including stir fried noodles. Store it in the fridge in a jar for when you need it - just make sure to leave sufficient headroom in the jar so you can give it a good shake before using. This makes 1 1/2 cups of sauce which is enough for around 12 servings.

Provided by Nagi | RecipeTin Eats

Categories     Noodles     Stir Fry

Time 2m

Number Of Ingredients 8

1/4 cup light soy sauce ( (Note 1))
1/4 cup all purpose soy sauce ((I use Kikkoman all purpose, or use more light soy sauce) (Note 1))
1/2 cup oyster sauce
1/4 cup Chinese wine ((or dry sherry) (Note 5))
1/4 cup cornstarch / cornflour
1 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp sesame oil (, toasted)
1 - 2 tsp ground white pepper ((I sometimes use 1 tbsp, I like the spiciness!))

Steps:

  • Combine ingredients in a jar and shake to combine. Store in fridge and shake before use.

Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 18 g, Calories 34 kcal, Carbohydrate 3.7 g, Protein 0.6 g, Fat 1.7 g, Sodium 504 mg, Sugar 0.9 g, UnsaturatedFat 1.7 g

ASIAN ESSENTIALS: THE ABSOLUTE BEST STIR-FRY SAUCE



Asian Essentials: The Absolute Best Stir-Fry Sauce image

This is one of my go-to sauces for just about anything Asian that needs a good sauce. It is sweet, tangy, and has a bit of kick. I made this by combining elements of a Chinese brown sauce and stir fry sauce. The best of both worlds. Used it to make some beef and broccoli... AWESOME. So, you ready... Let's get into the kitchen.

Provided by Andy Anderson ! @ThePretentiousChef

Categories     Gravies

Number Of Ingredients 17

PLAN/PURCHASE
THE VEGGIES
1 tablespoon(s) grapeseed oil, or other non-flavored variety
3 clove(s) garlic, minced
3 teaspoon(s) fresh ginger, minced
THE SAUCE
1/2 cup(s) chicken stock, not broth
3 tablespoon(s) tamari sauce, or liquid aminos
2 tablespoon(s) fresh clover honey
2 tablespoon(s) fish sauce
1 tablespoon(s) cornstarch, or arrowroot powder
1/2 teaspoon(s) white pepper, freshly ground
1/2 teaspoon(s) toasted sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon(s) smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon(s) red pepper flakes, or to taste
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
1 tablespoon(s) sweet butter, unsalted

Steps:

  • PREP/PREPARE
  • You will need a medium saucepan to make this recipe, and a non-reactive jar to store it in.
  • Storage of homemade condiments and spices Because homemade spices and condiments do not contain any preservatives, it is important to store them properly. Non-reactive (glass) containers with tight-fitting lids are a must. If I am making a dry spice, I love to use old spice bottles that I have run through the dishwasher. If I am doing homemade sauces, I love using Weck jars. They are all glass, come in all sizes and shapes, and have excellent leakproof lids. If you shop online, you can go to Amazon, and type in "Weck Jars" and you will find a ton of them. Dry spices should be kept in a cool space, away from sunlight (spice cabinet), and sauces, in most cases, should be stored in the fridge. If properly stored, this sauce should last 2 - 3 weeks.
  • If you do not have any fish sauce, you can use an equal amount of rice wine vinegar. You can use regular soy sauce, in place of the tamari or liquid aminos; however, reduce the amount to two tablespoons. If you do not have any honey, you could always use maple syrup, or other sweetener; even, regular sugar.
  • Gather your ingredients (mise en place).
  • Add the oil to a saucepan over medium heat, and then add the garlic and ginger.
  • Stir until the garlic is fragrant, about 60 - 90 seconds.
  • Add the sauce ingredients.
  • The best way to do this is take all the sauce ingredients and whisk them together into a measuring cup or bowl, and then add to the saucepan. Remember that you want to have those ingredients ready before you add the garlic and ginger, so you can add them quickly. Otherwise, you might burn the garlic, and you will have to start all over.
  • Allow to lightly simmer for about 8 - 10 minutes, stirring every minute or so, until it thickens.
  • Remove from heat, add the butter, and stir until it is melted into the sauce.
  • Use now or allow it to cool and store according to the above recommendations.
  • PLATE/PRESENT
  • Use anywhere you want a great Asian cooking sauce, or you can even drizzle it over sautéed veggies or meats and fish. I like using it as a dipping sauce for tempura and egg rolls. Enjoy.
  • Keep the faith, and keep cooking.

Asian Essentials: The Absolute Best Stir Fry Sauce Recipes

If you're a lover of Asian cuisine, then you know that a good stir fry sauce is essential to achieving the perfect flavor combination. Whether you're cooking up some chicken, beef, or shrimp, the right sauce can elevate your dish and take it to new heights of deliciousness. In this article, we're going to explore the absolute best stir fry sauces that you can easily make from home, so you can enjoy an authentic Asian meal anytime you want.

The Basics of Stir Fry Sauce

Before we dive into the recipes, let's go over some basics of stir fry sauce. The key to a good stir fry is to have a balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors in your sauce. You want to create a sauce that will complement the ingredients in your stir fry, rather than overpower them. A basic stir fry sauce typically includes soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch. From there, you can add in other ingredients like garlic, ginger, sesame oil, chili paste, or oyster sauce to create the perfect flavor profile for your dish.

Hoisin Garlic Stir Fry Sauce

This sauce is a great all-purpose option that can work with a variety of different protein and veggie combinations. It has a rich, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of garlic and spice that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup water
Directions:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together water and cornstarch.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your protein and veggies. Once they're cooked to your preference, add your hoisin sauce mixture to the pan and stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the water and cornstarch mixture and continue to stir until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Spicy Szechuan Stir Fry Sauce

If you're a fan of spicy food, then this Szechuan sauce is for you. It has a nice kick of heat, with a slightly sweet and sour flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. This sauce works particularly well with beef, broccoli, and other hearty vegetables.

Ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili paste
  • 1/4 cup water
Directions:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, sesame oil, and chili paste.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together water and cornstarch.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your protein and veggies. Once they're cooked to your preference, add your Szechuan sauce mixture to the pan and stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the water and cornstarch mixture and continue to stir until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Garlic Ginger Stir Fry Sauce

If you love the flavors of garlic and ginger, then you'll adore this sauce. It has a nice savory flavor with a hint of sweetness, and works particularly well with chicken and broccoli.

Ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup water
Directions:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together water and cornstarch.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your protein and veggies. Once they're cooked to your preference, add your garlic ginger sauce mixture to the pan and stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the water and cornstarch mixture and continue to stir until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion

There you have it, some of the best Asian stir fry sauce recipes that will elevate your cooking game. The key to achieving a perfect stir fry is to find a balance of flavor in your sauce, whether it be sweet and savory like hoisin garlic, spicy like Szechuan, or packed with garlic and ginger. So next time you're craving some delicious Asian food, try making your own stir fry sauce and taste the difference it can make!

Valuable Tips for Making the Best Stir-Fry Sauce

Stir-frying is an essential cooking technique in Asian cuisine. A stir-fry sauce is the key ingredient that elevates the flavor and aroma of any stir-fried dish. Making the perfect stir-fry sauce can be intimidating, especially if you are a beginner. Here are some valuable tips to help you make the best Asian stir-fry sauce:
1. Start with a Good Quality Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a fundamental ingredient in most stir-fry sauces. It provides the umami flavor that is essential in Asian cuisine. When selecting soy sauce, opt for a good quality one that is brewed naturally. Avoid using chemically-produced soy sauce as they may contain additives and preservatives that can alter the taste of your sauce.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients are always better when cooking. When making stir-fry sauce, use fresh garlic, ginger, and scallions for a more vibrant and robust flavor. As much as possible, avoid using pre-packaged seasoning mixes as they contain artificial flavors and monosodium glutamate (MSG), which can ruin the taste of your sauce.
3. Adjust the Sweetness and Saltiness
The right balance of sweetness and saltiness is crucial in making stir-fry sauce. Before adding it to your stir-fried dish, adjust the taste by adding more sugar or soy sauce until it reaches the desired sweetness and saltiness that suits your preference.
4. Incorporate Acidic Ingredients
Acidic ingredients such as rice vinegar, lemon juice, and lime juice add a tangy flavor to your stir-fry sauce, enhancing the overall taste. Start with a small amount of acidic ingredients and adjust as needed.
5. Customize your Stir-Fry Sauce
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to making stir-fry sauce. Experiment with different ingredients, spices, and sauces to customize your stir-fry sauce. Add chili paste or oyster sauce to spice up your stir-fried dish or add hoisin sauce and honey to make it more savory and sweet.
6. Add Thickening Agent
The use of thickening agents such as cornstarch or arrowroot powder is essential in making the perfect stir-fry sauce. These agents help thicken the sauce and coat the stir-fried ingredients evenly, providing a velvety texture to the dish.
7. Do not Overcook the Sauce
Overcooking your stir-fry sauce can cause it to turn into a sticky mess. Always add the sauce at the end of the stir-frying process, and do not overcook it. It only takes a few seconds for the sauce to coat the stir-fried ingredients adequately.
8. Use the Right Cooking Oil
The type of cooking oil you use can impact the taste of your stir-fry sauce. Peanut oil, sesame oil, or vegetable oil are often used for stir-frying as they can withstand high-temperature cooking. Use a neutral oil, such as canola oil, if you want to avoid a strong oil flavor.
9. Consider the Cooking Time of your Ingredients
When making stir-fries, consider the cooking time of your ingredients. Some vegetables take longer to cook than others, and adding them at the wrong time can cause them to overcook or become mushy. Add vegetables and protein in order of their cooking time, starting with the ones that take the longest to cook.
10. Preheat your Wok or Pan
Preheating your wok or pan is essential to ensure that the ingredients cook evenly and the sauce coats them properly. Heat the wok or pan until it is hot enough before adding the cooking oil and the ingredients. This will prevent the stir-fry sauce from becoming watery and give the dish a nice sear.

Conclusion

Making the best stir-fry sauce requires practice and experimentation. Keep these valuable tips in mind, and don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and combinations. Remember to adjust the sweetness, saltiness, and acidity to suit your taste preference. With these tips and tricks, you can make a delicious and flavorful stir-fry sauce that will elevate your stir-fried dishes to the next level.

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