Sweet Chilli Ginger Sauce (Microwave-Friendly)

If you’re craving something with a little kick, this sweet chilli ginger sauce is a lifesaver. It’s glossy, sticky, and full of flavour, but you don’t need a wok or a saucepan to make it. Just grab a jug, stir everything together, and let the microwave do the work.

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It’s one of those sauces that tastes like it should have taken ages, but actually comes together in under five minutes.

What you’ll need

• 1 cup chicken stock (or veggie stock if you prefer)
• 2 tsp cornflour (cornstarch)
• 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce (store-bought is fine)
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

How to make it

In a microwave-safe jug, whisk the cornflour into the cold stock until smooth. Stir in the sweet chilli sauce, ginger, soy sauce, and honey.

Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, then heat for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns glossy. Taste and adjust, more chilli sauce if you like it hotter, or more honey if you want it sweeter.

Variations & Substitutions

• Extra heat: Add a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of sriracha.
• Citrus lift: Stir in a squeeze of lime juice at the end for zing.
• Garlic twist: Add a crushed garlic clove or a pinch of garlic powder.
• Thicker glaze: Microwave a little longer, then brush onto chicken wings or skewers before grilling.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Swap chicken stock for vegetable stock and use maple syrup instead of honey.

This sauce is amazing with pan-fried chicken, but honestly, I’ve also used it as a dip for spring rolls and even drizzled over rice bowls. It’s that good, and you can make it in the time it takes to reheat leftovers.