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–+ servings
Chinese BBQ Sauce

Irresistible Chinese BBQ Sauce: Sweet, Savory, & Gluten-Free

This Easy Gluten-Free Chinese BBQ Sauce is a must-try, bringing authentic flavors to your meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1 cup
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar Adds sweetness and caramel notes; substitute with coconut sugar for a less processed option.
  • 1 cup Hoisin Sauce Provides umami flavor and richness; use gluten-free hoisin for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 cup Oyster Sauce Enhances the savory profile; substitute with a half-and-half mixture of soy sauce and hoisin for a vegetarian option.
  • 1/4 cup Molasses Offers deep sweetness and color; honey can serve as a substitute if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Contributes salty umami flavor; substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free variant.
  • 1/4 cup Shaoxing Wine (or dry sherry) Adds depth of flavor; in absence, sake or a splash of vodka can be used.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (grated) Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred; powdered has less impact.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger (grated) Adds warmth and spiciness; fresh ginger root offers the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Five Spice Powder Infuses traditional Chinese spices; no direct substitute but can omit if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Balances flavors; amount can be adjusted to taste.

Equipment

  • Small Saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chinese BBQ Sauce
  1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients for the Chinese BBQ Sauce. In a small saucepan, add brown sugar, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, molasses, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, grated garlic, grated ginger, five spice powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine everything into a thick, rich mixture, ensuring the sugars begin to dissolve.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and continuously stir the mixture for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sugar has completely dissolved and the sauce starts to bubble gently. This process helps to meld the flavors together, creating a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
  3. Raise the heat slightly to bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll see the sauce beginning to thicken and coat the back of a spoon, achieving that perfect consistency ideal for glazing meats. Reduce the heat if it starts bubbling too vigorously.
  4. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and set it aside to cool for 10 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken even further, enhancing the sticky sweetness you want in your Chinese BBQ Sauce. This also allows the flavors to deepen, making it truly irresistible.
  5. After cooling, carefully transfer the sauce into a heat-proof container. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it with a lid. Store your Chinese BBQ Sauce in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Enjoy the convenience of having this flavorful sauce on hand for quick weeknight dinners!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 1gSodium: 800mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 45gCalcium: 2mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor. Don’t rush the simmering process to develop deeper flavors. Store in an airtight container for freshness.

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