Copycat Panda Express Sweet and Sour Sauce

If you love the sweet and tangy flavors of Copycat Panda Express Sweet and Sour Sauce, this recipe is for you! You can now make this delicious sauce at home, and it’s just as good as the restaurant version. It’s perfect for dipping, drizzling, or adding to stir-fries. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and just a few steps.

The Copycat Panda Express Sweet and Sour Sauce is a homemade version of the famous sauce served at Panda Express. It combines sweet and tart flavors to create a mouthwatering sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken, pork, shrimp, or veggies. The sauce is known for its bright red color and glossy finish, making it look just as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
• Red food coloring

How to make Panda Express Sweet and Sour Sauce

STEP 1

Combine sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce in a small saucepan. Whisk them together over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, and the mixture is smooth.

STEP 2

Mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry in a separate small bowl. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, and there are no lumps.

STEP 3

Slowly add the pineapple juice (if using) to the saucepan and whisk. Then, gradually pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring the sauce continuously. This will help the sauce thicken as it cooks.

STEP 4

Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Once it reaches your desired thickness, remove it from the heat. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

STEP 5

At this stage, you can add a drop or two of red food coloring for a classic restaurant look. Stir well to ensure the color is evenly distributed.

STEP 6

Allow the sauce to cool before serving. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips From PleasantRecipe

• Adjust sweetness and sourness: If you prefer your sauce to be more on the sweet side, increase the sugar by a tablespoon. For more tartness, add a little more vinegar.
• Pineapple juice option: Adding pineapple juice gives the sauce a tropical flavor, but it’s optional. If you want a more traditional taste, you can skip this step.
• Thickness: If you like a thicker sauce, add a little more cornstarch. If it’s too thick, thin it out with a tablespoon of water.
• Storage tip: Store the sauce in a glass jar in the refrigerator, and give it a quick stir before using it again. It can last up to two weeks.

What pairs with Panda Express Sweet and Sour Sauce

This versatile sauce is perfect for dipping crispy chicken tenders, spring rolls, or wontons. It’s also fantastic as a glaze for sweet and sour chicken or pork. If you’re making a stir-fry, drizzle it over your veggies or noodles for an extra burst of flavor. It can even be used as a dipping sauce for fries, egg rolls, or dumplings.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It’s perfect for meal prep!

Can I freeze sweet and sour sauce?

Yes, you can freeze this sauce. Store it in an airtight container, and it will last for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before using.

How do I reheat this Panda Express Sweet and Sour Sauce?

To reheat, simply warm it up in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired temperature.

Final Thoughts

This recipe gives you the chance to make the famous Panda Express Sweet and Sour Sauce right at home! It’s simple to whip up and brings a lot of joy to the cooking process. Pair it with your favorite dishes, and it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Not only is it fun to make, but it also adds a delicious flavor to your meals. Enjoy both preparing and savoring this sweet and tangy sauce!