Combine all ingredients except the cornstarch mixture in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring often.
80 ml rice vinegar, 80 ml water, 68 g sugar, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine, 1 tablespoon sambal oelek, 1.5 teaspoons finely minced garlic, 1 teaspoon finely minced ginger, 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce, 1 drop of red food coloring
Once the sugar dissolves, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 1 minute.
2 teaspoons cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water
Let the sauce cool completely, then pour into an airtight jar and refrigerate. Keeps for up to 1 week. Makes about 1 jar.
Notes
Can I use a sugar substitute to make sweet chili sauce?Yes, you can use honey or agave syrup if you prefer. Because they are liquids, you will need to add a little extra cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Honey, in particular, is sweeter than sugar, so use slightly less and add a splash of water to balance the sweetness.For a diabetic-friendly option, use a powdered or granulated sweetener of your choice, such as erythritol.How do I store sweet chili sauce?Store the sauce in the fridge for about 1 week or freeze for 2–3 months. The sauce will "set" when frozen, but gently reheat (on the stovetop or in the microwave) and stir to return it to a smooth consistency.