Szechuan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Szechuan Sauce is a bold, spicy, and savory condiment rooted in Chinese cuisine, known for its complex flavors and signature heat. With garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and Szechuan peppercorns, it brings a tingling, umami-rich kick to stir-fries, noodles, grilled meats, or dipping sauces. This easy homemade version delivers restaurant-style flavor in minutes.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

soy saucehoisin saucerice vinegarbrown sugar or honeygarlic (minced)ginger (minced)Szechuan peppercorns (crushed)chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakescornstarchwatertoasted sesame oil

directions

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar or honey, and chili garlic sauce.

In a saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and crushed Szechuan peppercorns. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in the soy sauce mixture and bring to a gentle simmer.

In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk into the simmering sauce.

Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens—about 2–3 minutes.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use immediately or store for later.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately ¾ to 1 cup of sauce.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 5 minutesTotal time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add orange zest or juice for a citrus twist.

Use maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Blend in peanut butter for a creamy Szechuan-peanut version.

Replace hoisin with oyster sauce for a deeper umami profile.

Use a dash of fish sauce for extra savory depth.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.Can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed before use.

FAQs

What are Szechuan peppercorns?

They’re a unique spice that creates a tingling, numbing sensation—distinct from black pepper.

Is this sauce very spicy?

It’s moderately spicy—adjust chili garlic sauce to taste.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check other ingredients.

What’s the best use for this sauce?

Great in stir-fries, on grilled meats, tossed with noodles, or as a dipping sauce.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it stores well and flavors deepen over time.

Can I thicken it more?

Yes, increase cornstarch or reduce longer for a thicker consistency.

What can I substitute for hoisin?

Try a mix of soy sauce, molasses, and garlic powder.

How long does it last?

Up to 7 days refrigerated or 2 months frozen.

Is it vegetarian?

Yes, all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I skip the cornstarch?

Yes, but it will be thinner. Arrowroot or xanthan gum are alternatives.

Conclusion

Szechuan Sauce is a fiery, flavorful addition that transforms everyday meals with just a few spoonfuls. Packed with heat, tang, and umami, it’s an easy way to elevate stir-fries, dips, or marinades with authentic flair. Once you taste its bold character, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything.

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