What To Substitute For Sweet Chili Sauce: 11 Ideal Options

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It doesn’t matter if you’re cooking up a meal in an Asian wok, looking for a BBQ condiment, or just need a dipping sauce for chicken wings. The best sweet chili sauce has the spiciness of cayenne pepper but harbors a sweet flavor.

I also get that it might be hard to get your hands on, especially if you’re shopping in a smaller grocery store. This is why I have what you need: a substitute for sweet chili sauce.

Rest assured, when asking, “What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?” you will get a Thai chili sauce substitute, sweet chili sauce substitute, and just plain old chili sauce substitute ideas.

11 Ideas For A Substitute For Sweet Chili Sauce

Here are my own favorites when it comes to finding a substitute for sweet chili sauce:

1. Hot sauce

Hot sauce is a great substitute for sweet chili sauce because it has a more intense flavor. It also has less sugar and sodium than sweet chili sauce.

Still, it might not be sweet enough to match the flavor profile of sweet chili. This is why you can add a sweetener, and you will get the best substitute for your needs.

2. Sriracha sauce

Sriracha is a hot sauce that originated in Thailand and has been popularized in the United States. Also known as one of the hottest store-bought sauces out there, sriracha has become a staple. It is made from red jalapeño peppers, garlic, salt, sugar, and vinegar.

Add a tad of ketchup and a tablespoon of honey to fully match the taste and get the best substitute for Thai sweet chili sauce.

3. Tabasco sauce

Tabasco sauce is a great substitute for sweet chili sauce because it has a more intense flavor. It also has a higher heat level, which makes it perfect for those who like spicy food.

4. Hoisin sauce

Hoisin sauce is a great substitute for sweet chili sauce because it has a more complex flavor. It is also less spicy than sweet chili sauce. This is why you could add a teaspoon of hot sauce to match the flavor as a perfect substitute for sweet chili sauce.

5. Red chili sauce

Red chili sauce has a more intense flavor and can be used in many dishes that require sweet chili sauce. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for fried foods like chicken wings or French fries.

This sauce can be made from ancho chiles, Cajun peppers, chili paste, red chili peppers, and others.

6. Chili flakes or red pepper flakes

Chili flakes are made from dried red chilies, which is why they have a slightly different flavor than sweet chili sauce. They can be used in many different dishes, including stir-fries and soups.

If you’re looking for some extra carbohydrates, add a tablespoon of plum sauce, rice vinegar, and apple cider vinegar. The flakes are there for the extra spicy flavor. It’s like combining chili powder and sweetener.

7. Chili garlic sauce

Chili garlic sauce is an excellent substitute for sweet chili sauce because it has a more complex flavor profile. It can be used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, an ingredient in stir-fry, or a marinade for chicken.

8. Soy sauce

Soy sauce has a similar flavor and can be used in many recipes. Soy sauce is also low in calories, sodium, and fat, making it an ideal choice for those who are watching their weight or have dietary restrictions. These soybeans might not be spicy, but they sure are savory and delicious.

9. Sambal oelek

Sambal oelek has a similar taste and texture to sweet chili sauce, but it is healthier because it doesn’t contain sugar. It goes well with egg rolls, and if you’re looking for an extra spicy kick, add some tomato sauce and harissa.

10. Fish sauce

Fish sauce is a great substitute for sweet chili sauce. It has a similar consistency. This sauce is a condiment made from fermented fish, salt, and water. It is used in Southeast Asian cuisine as a dipping sauce or as an ingredient in other sauces like nam pla.

11. Homemade sweet chili sauce

Another Thai sweet chili sauce substitute is your own homemade version. Here is my own sweet chili sauce recipe:

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup water

• 1/3 cup sugar

• 1/3 cup rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon rice wine

• 1 tablespoon garlic

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 2 teaspoons chili flakes

• 1 teaspoon tomato-based paste

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Preparation

First, dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and leave it aside. You will use this mixture in the last step.

Then, combine the rest of the ingredients together. Of course, if you want your sauce to be less sweet, add less sugar, and if you want it to be spicier, add more chili flakes. Remember, it’s YOUR homemade substitute for sweet chili sauce.

Bring the mixture to a boil over the stovetop, then add the cornstarch mixture and stir. Voila! Now you have a spicy sauce to end your craving.

Taste The Chili

I hope that you found a substitute for sweet chili sauce that you had in your fridge or spice rack and that you learned how to pair each of these condiments with a casserole, barbecue, stir fry, or at least go for a similar flavor. Happy cooking!