Soy Ginger Sauce
A versatile and zesty sauce bursting with fresh ginger, garlic, and savory soy sauce. Perfect as a dipping sauce for dumplings, a marinade for chicken, or a dressing for salads and noodles.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.In a small saucepan, combine the low sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup of water, grated ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil. Whisk everything together.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- 3
While the sauce is heating up, prepare the cornstarch slurry
- a.In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water until it forms a smooth, lump-free paste.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Once the sauce is simmering, slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Continue to cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. It will have the consistency of a thin syrup.
- 6
Remove the saucepan from the heat
- a.The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Use immediately as a warm sauce or allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most vibrant flavor, always use freshly grated ginger and minced garlic.
- 2It is crucial to dissolve the cornstarch in cold water before adding it to the hot sauce; this prevents the starch from clumping.
- 3For a gluten-free version of this sauce, simply use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.
- 4The sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sweeter Sauce
Increase the maple syrup to 3 tablespoons or substitute with honey (if not vegan) for a sweeter profile.
Citrus TwistCitrus Twist
Add 1 tablespoon of fresh orange or lime juice along with the other liquids for a bright, tangy flavor.
Spicier KickSpicier Kick
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
Thinner DressingThinner Dressing
Omit the cornstarch and cold water slurry entirely for a pourable dressing perfect for salads or cold noodle dishes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Fresh ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help reduce oxidative stress.
Immunity Support
Garlic is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, containing compounds that can help the body fight off common illnesses like the cold and flu.
Aids Digestion
Ginger has a long history of use for digestive issues. It can help soothe an upset stomach, reduce nausea, and promote healthy digestion.
Frequently asked questions
One serving, which is approximately 1/4 cup, contains about 65-75 calories, depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.