Meet your new favorite sauce: Dragon Sauce. This fiery, sweet, garlicky, umami-packed sauce is inspired by Asian flavor profiles and is designed to elevate everything—from stir-fries and noodles to rice bowls, grilled meats, veggies, and even tacos.
Think of it as a spicy teriyaki-meets-sweet-chili hybrid, with layers of heat, richness, and brightness. It’s vegan-friendly, easy to make at home, and stores well in the fridge for days (if it lasts that long!).
🛒 Ingredients (U.S. Measurements)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry for thickening)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lime juice or zest
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds, green onions
🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Base
In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup (or honey), rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, garlic, and ginger.
Step 2: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the garlic to soften.
Step 3: Thicken
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring. Let it simmer for 1–2 more minutes, or until thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Finish and Store
Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice for brightness (optional). Let the sauce cool slightly, then pour into a jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
🧾 Nutrition Facts (Per Tablespoon)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~25 kcal |
| Carbs | 4g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Protein | <1g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
Note: Nutrition varies slightly based on the exact sweetener or chili sauce used.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Want it spicier? Use extra sriracha or add chili flakes for more heat.
- Sweeter version? Use more honey or maple syrup and reduce the vinegar slightly.
- Ginger kick: Add more grated ginger for a zippier flavor.
- Thinner sauce? Skip the cornstarch or use half as much for a pourable drizzle.
- Meal prep idea: Use it as a stir-fry sauce with tofu, veggies, and rice!
🔥 Chef’s Extra Touch (From Me to You)
For an umami-rich upgrade, stir in 1 teaspoon of miso paste or a dash of fish sauce while simmering. This adds deeper savory complexity without overpowering the balance of the sauce.
Also, try tossing crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower in Dragon Sauce and finishing with toasted sesame seeds. It’s chef’s kiss level delicious.
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