Honey Garlic Sauce

This Honey Garlic Sauce is a kitchen classic that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a versatile sauce that works beautifully as a glaze for chicken, a stir-fry sauce, a dipping sauce, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables. Made from simple ingredients like soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a touch of rice vinegar, this homemade sauce is far tastier than store-bought versions and can be customized to your preferred level of sweetness and garlicky punch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy, ready in just 10 minutes
• Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors
• Versatile: works for stir-fries, marinades, glazes, or dipping
• Can be made ahead and stored for convenient use
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients

Ingredients

• ¼ cup soy sauce – Adds salty umami depth
• ¼ cup honey – Sweetens and balances the garlic flavor
• ⅓ cup brown sugar – Adds rich caramel notes
• 7–8 cloves garlic, minced and separated (~1 ½ tablespoons) – Infuses bold garlic flavor
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Provides bright, tangy contrast
• ¼ cup water – Helps adjust consistency
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Thickens the sauce to a perfect glaze

How to Make Honey Garlic Sauce

Combine Main Ingredients

In a small saucepan, add soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, 5 cloves of minced garlic (~1 tablespoon), and rice vinegar. Whisk to combine.

Prepare Cornstarch Mixture

In a small bowl, combine water and cornstarch. Stir until fully dissolved, then pour the mixture into the saucepan.

Cook the Sauce

Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk regularly. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat slightly and continue boiling for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Finish with Fresh Garlic

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the remaining minced garlic (~½ tablespoon) for a fresh punch of flavor.

Serve or Store

Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or container. Serve warm or allow to cool completely before storing.

Tips for Success

• Whisk continuously while boiling to prevent sticking or burning
• Adjust sweetness by increasing or decreasing honey and brown sugar
• For a thicker glaze, let the sauce simmer slightly longer
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; avoid pre-minced jarred garlic if possible

Equipment Needed

• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowl for cornstarch slurry
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Airtight container for storage

Serving Suggestions

• Glaze chicken wings, drumsticks, or thighs
• Toss with stir-fried vegetables and tofu
• Drizzle over roasted carrots, broccoli, or green beans
• Serve as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or fried appetizers

FAQs

How long does this sauce last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Can I make it spicier?
Yes, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha while cooking.

Can I use this as a marinade?
Absolutely. Marinate chicken, beef, or tofu for 30–60 minutes before cooking.

Can I omit the cornstarch?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Simmer longer to reduce for a glaze-like consistency.

Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients and whisk until smooth.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Sauce is a quick, flavorful addition to any meal, adding sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness in every bite. Perfect for glazing, dipping, or stir-frying, it’s a versatile homemade sauce that elevates weeknight dinners and special meals alike. Once you try it, it will quickly become a kitchen staple.

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