Sweet Chilli Sauce
Description
Sweet chilli sauce is a popular condiment known for its unique combination of sweetness and mild to moderate heat. Made from a blend of red chilli peppers, sugar, garlic, and vinegar, this sauce often features additional ingredients such as salt, stabilizers, and sometimes fruits or vegetables for added complexity. It is a staple in various cuisines, offering a balance of flavors that can enhance a wide array of dishes.
Common uses
Sweet chilli sauce is commonly used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, chicken, and other appetizers. It also serves as a glaze for meats, a stir-fry sauce, and a condiment in sandwiches and salads. In Western cuisine, it is often used as a flavorful addition to BBQ dishes and as a dipping sauce for finger foods.
Nutritional value
Calories
A typical serving of sweet chilli sauce (2 tablespoons or about 30ml/1 fl oz) contains approximately 70 calories.
Protein
Protein content is usually negligible, with less than 1 gram per serving.
Fat
Sweet chilli sauce generally contains no fat, making it a fat-free condiment option.
Carbohydrates
Most of the calories in sweet chilli sauce come from carbohydrates, with about 17 grams per serving, primarily from sugars.
Vitamins
While not a significant source of vitamins, some sweet chilli sauces may contain small amounts of vitamin C from the chilli peppers.
Minerals
The sauce may also provide trace amounts of minerals such as potassium.
Health benefits
Sweet chilli sauce can add flavor to a meal without contributing significant amounts of fat. The capsaicin in the chilli peppers may have metabolism-boosting properties and can aid in digestion. However, these health benefits should be considered in the context of the sauce's high sugar content.
Potential risks
The high sugar content in sweet chilli sauce may contribute to an increased risk of obesity and dental issues if consumed in large quantities. Some brands may contain preservatives or additives that could cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
Common recipes
Sweet chilli sauce is a key ingredient in many Asian dishes, such as Thai sweet chilli chicken, and is also used in Western recipes like sweet chilli glazed salmon.
Cooking methods
It can be used as a marinade, a glaze during baking or grilling, or added at the end of cooking for a flavor boost.
Pairing with other ingredients
The sauce pairs well with ingredients like cream cheese for dips, mayonnaise for spreads, or mixed with soy sauce for a savory-sweet dressing.
Summary
Sweet chilli sauce is a versatile condiment that blends the heat of chilli peppers with the perfect touch of sweetness. It is a beloved addition to many Asian and Western dishes, used as a dipping sauce, glaze, or flavor enhancer. While delicious, its high sugar content means it should be consumed in moderation to avoid potential health risks.